REPRESSED MEMORY Meaning and
Definition
-
Repressed memory refers to a psychological concept describing memories that have been consciously or unconsciously blocked or buried in the mind due to their distressing or traumatic nature. Often associated with traumatic events, such as abuse, violence, or severe emotional distress, repressed memories are thought to be a defense mechanism employed by the mind to protect an individual from further psychological harm.
According to this theory, the mind suppresses or blocks out memories as a way to shield itself from the overwhelming emotions associated with the traumatic event. These memories are stored in the unconscious mind, making them inaccessible to conscious recall for an indefinite period. Repressed memories may surface at a later stage, typically triggered by external stimuli or through therapeutic techniques aimed at recovering suppressed memories, such as hypnosis or therapy.
There has been much debate in the field of psychology regarding the validity and reliability of repressed memories. Some experts argue that repressed memories may be susceptible to distortion or false recall due to their hidden nature and the influence of suggestion. Others contend that repressed memories demonstrate the mind's remarkable capacity for self-preservation. Thus, the phenomenon of repressed memory continues to be a topic of interest and ongoing research in understanding the complexities of human memory and psychological resilience.
Common Misspellings for REPRESSED MEMORY
- eepressed memory
- depressed memory
- fepressed memory
- tepressed memory
- 5epressed memory
- 4epressed memory
- rwpressed memory
- rspressed memory
- rdpressed memory
- rrpressed memory
- r4pressed memory
- r3pressed memory
- reoressed memory
- relressed memory
- re-ressed memory
- re0ressed memory
- repeessed memory
- repdessed memory
- repfessed memory
- reptessed memory
Etymology of REPRESSED MEMORY
The term "repressed memory" originated from the field of psychology and refers to a controversial concept related to memory retrieval. The word "repressed" comes from the Latin term "reprimere", which means "to press back" or "to hold back". In this context, "repressed" signifies the idea of pushing traumatic or distressing memories into the unconscious mind, away from conscious awareness.
The concept of repressed memory gained prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Sigmund Freud introduced the psychoanalytic theory. Freud proposed that traumatic experiences could be buried in the unconscious mind due to their unbearable nature or conflict with the individual's conscious desires. These repressed memories were thought to still influence an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, often leading to psychological distress.
It's important to note that the understanding and acceptance of repressed memories as a valid psychological phenomenon have evolved over time.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
