Question

Gwendolyn is 29 years old and is now convinced that she was abused as a child. From the time she was 9 until she was 28 , however, she had no recollection of the abuse. Gwendolyn has a. a false memory. b. long-term memory loss. c. amnesia. d. a recovered memory.

Short answer

Option d: Gwendolyn has a recovered memory.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Information Presented

Gwendolyn had no recollection of the abuse she experienced as a child from age 9 until 28. Now, at age 29, she is convinced she was abused.

Analyze the Options

Consider each option given: - **False Memory**: It implies a memory that is incorrect or invented by the person. - **Long-term Memory Loss**: A loss of the ability to recall information over a long period. - **Amnesia**: A general loss of memory which can be either temporarily or permanently. - **Recovered Memory**: Refers to a memory that was forgotten for a significant period but later recalled.

Match the Information to the Options

Gwendolyn's experience aligns most closely with having recovered a memory, as she did not recall the abuse for several years but now remembers it.

Key concepts

Recovered Memory

Recovered memory refers to the situation where an individual recalls a memory that they previously were unable to remember for a significant amount of time. People experiencing recovered memories usually encounter a "lost" memory after weeks, months, or even years.
This concept is often associated with memories that are traumatic or emotionally intense.
While the phenomenon of recovering memories might seem miraculous or even therapeutic, it is crucial to approach these memories with caution.

• Recovered memories often come up in therapy or through specific psychological prompts.
• These memories could be real, partially real, or inaccurate, leading to controversies.
• It's important to use professional guidance to authenticate such memories to avoid false accusations or personal distress.

False Memory

A false memory is when someone remembers something that either didn’t happen at all, or it happened differently than recalled.
This is a fascinating but perplexing area of memory psychology because it challenges what we think of as reality and truth.
Various factors can contribute to the formation of false memories:

• Suggestive questioning and leading information.
• Imagination and visualization of events.
• Pressure from external sources or authority figures.

False memories can have significant implications, especially in legal settings where eyewitness testimonies are used.
Recognizing the potential for false memories can help in developing strategies to minimize their effect in critical situations.

Amnesia

Amnesia is a condition characterized by memory loss that can be temporary, like forgetting an event, or permanent, involving a more significant loss of memory.
It can occur due to various reasons, such as trauma, brain injury, or psychological factors. There are different types of amnesia:

• Retrograde Amnesia: Loss of memories from before an event or incident.
• Anterograde Amnesia: Difficulty creating new memories after an event.
• Transient Global Amnesia: Temporary but abrupt memory loss.

Dealing with amnesia requires a supportive approach that focuses on medical treatment and rehabilitation to improve memory function.
Although amnesia affects individuals differently, understanding the kind someone is experiencing helps direct the appropriate care and treatment.

Long-Term Memory Loss

Long-term memory loss affects the ability to recall memories stored over long periods.
This can happen due to a variety of reasons including aging, disease, or neurological injury.
It's distinct from amnesia as it predominantly refers to the gradual erosion of once-accessed memories rather than a sharp and noticeable loss. Causes of long-term memory loss may include:

• Degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's or dementia.
• Chronic substance abuse that impacts the brain.
• Serious head injuries or traumatic brain injuries.

Managing long-term memory loss may involve cognitive therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medication.
While it can be challenging for both the affected individuals and their families, understanding its underlying causes can significantly aid in management and improvement efforts.