My Memory Lane

Why are memory researchers suspicious of long repressed memories of traumatic events that are vividly remember?

Why are memory researchers suspicious of long repressed memories of traumatic events that are vividly remembered? Thanks !

Public Comments

1. The memory isn't like a book that notes things down accurately and keeps them until needed. The way memories are stored is very complex, and memories change with time and recollection - no two people will remember things exactly the same way. If repressed memories are associated with some trauma, just the fact of repression may alter them so that even though they may be vivid, they no longer represent completely objective truth.
2. Yeah, what he said. Just think about this: every time a memory surfaces and you think about it, it's altered.