Discussion – MEMORY
Participate in a debate on this topic: “ Are repressed and recovered memories a valid phenomenon?
WHAT TO DO:
Students whose last names start with A-L: Argue-Yes. “For some people, memories of traumatic events are blocked, but may be subsequently recovered.” Students whose last names start with M-Z: Argue-No. “False memories emerge from “clinical folklore,” there are no scientific studies or evidence to support false memories, only anecdotal case reports. It is based on methods used by therapists to “unlock” the “repressed” memories.”
To receive full points on this discussion forum, you must make your own post, and respond to at least two other student’s posts.
First student
Yes, I do agree that for some people, memories of traumatic events are blocked, but may be subsequently recovered. I believe so because when experiencing an overwhelming trauma, the brain can block that certain memory through the process of dissociation or detachment from reality. Since, the brain can dissociate with a certain traumatic event, like how out body can ward off foreign substances, in order to protect the rest of the body. In addition, I do think that subsequently it may be recovered because as we know it take energy to keep memories repressed, and at some point those traumatic events will come back, either completely, or slowly over the years. Furthermore, it can be recovered if a matter or something triggers a person to the point where those repressed memories suddenly comes flowing back.
-M.
Second student
Hello everyone!
I agree with the idea that memories of traumatic events that are blocked can be eventually recovered. I agree with this idea because when someone experiences something which is too traumatic it can be blocked out by the person. Scientists have found a way to retrieve memories which are blocked out due to trauma. Individuals can retrieve the memories by having the brain return to the same state of consciousness which it was when the traumatic event took place. People can also eventually recover the memory by having something trigger them. The memories can come back. It is fascinating how the brain works!
-N. K.
