Memory for emotions

Journal/Book: New Idea Psychol. 1997; 15: The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England OX5 1GB. Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. 55-70.

Abstract: It is argued that memory reproduces emotional data as well as cognitive information. Retrieval of feelings may be cue-dependent, emotionally mediated or coincidental. Infantile emotions can be presumed to vary strongly due to the lack of control, and, poorly labelled, they could produce powerful, but un-identifiable memories, possible components in various adult experiences. In later childhood there is greater independence, and moderately positive memories from this period have possibly fewer ''withdrawal effects.'' Though an event may be linked with certain remembered feelings at the time of impact, it can later be recombined with other echoes. Remembered emotions can be rewarding, and if they are found to be lacking, substitutes will often be sought, or repressed feelings may surface. These theoretical considerations are applied to the phenomena of anger, depression, and anxiety, each involving (reproduced) feeling-states influencing cognitive processing. ''Turning down'' the memory channel, or the timely retrieval of positive feelings could increase tolerance in this respect. Human attraction is also briefly analysed.

Note: Article VanWeelden PW, Univ Sussex, Sch Cognit & Comp Sci, Brighton BN1 9RG, E Sussex, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): remembering; emotion; awareness; childhood; mood states; coping; MUTUAL GAZE; MOOD; LOOKING

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