Repressed Memory

 

Introduction

            Repressed memory is a state where a memory becomes blocked unconsciously due to the memory being associated with high level of stress or shock. It occurs from a wide range of stress levels and experiences of trauma. A repressed memory occurs differently to different individuals and therefore it becomes difficult to monitor its cause. It causes the individual to forget the events simply to protect them from the trauma and stress level of the incident. Many psychologists believe that repressed memory protects us from other emotions such as anger and negative believes.

            When a horrifying incident occurs it makes the memory to forget everything and it can only remember it after a flashback (Loftus & Ketchan, 2013). Evidence from psychologists’ shows that many women who had experienced the trauma of sexual abuse when young would find it difficult to remember even after a long period of time. This shows how the repression of mind occurred to them after the incident and the trauma caused them not to recall. Those who had experienced the trauma in the world war repressed memory due to fear. This repression caused them to take time before therapy to know what happened was conducted (Cardwell & Flanagan, 2005). In this incident it shows the danger that is found when eyewitness is giving report where in many cases this reports use to be incorrect. The issue of repression is there and it stands basically in the occupation to reject and keep the matter out of awareness.

Conclusion

            The idea of repression has been there in centuries. Theories have been brought to figure it out what really brings repression as it differs in persons. Repression in other terms helps since it prevents damages to occur as a result of after math of the traumatic incident and negative effects such as anger. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reference

Cardwell, M., & Flanagan, C. (2005). Psychology AS: The complete companion. United   Kingdom: Nelson Thornes.

Loftus, E., & Ketcham, K. (2013). The myth of repressed memory: False memories and    allegations of sexual abuse. New York: St. Martin's Press.