Forgetting generally occurs due to limited storage space in the sensory register and working memory (Genetic Science Learning Center, 2016). However, some researchers believe that once memories are stored in the long-term memory, they are there permanently, remaining dormant until they are actively recalled and reconstructed (Genetic Science Learning Center, 2016). Usually, forgetting is a temporary loss of access and not a complete loss of the original information
(Squire, 2006).
There are a number of reasons why we forget:
(Squire, 2006).
There are a number of reasons why we forget:
1. The inability to recall previously known facts or memories can occur over time if those items are seldom recalled (Ormrod, 2016).
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2. Information can become mixed-up in the brain resulting in retrieval issues (Ormrod, 2016).
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3. Memories can also be suppressed due to high levels of emotion and a self-preservation reaction (Ormrod, 2016).
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4. Trauma can result in the repression of painful memories (Ormord, 2016).
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5. Information may not have been encoded and stored properly at the point of learning (Ormrod, 2016).
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6. Memory impairment can be a temporary affliction as a result of depression and anxiety (Kizilbash, Vanderploeg, & Curtiss, 2002).
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Usually, forgetting is a temporary loss of access and not a complete loss of the original information (Squire, 2006).
Does forgetting where you left your car keys, or not being able to immediately recall the name of a person you know, mean that you are going to develop dementia or Alzheimer’s?
For many people over the age of 40, forgetting happens more frequently and can lead to anxiety about permanent memory loss (Valentijn, van Hooren, Bosma, Touw, Jolles, Boxtel, & Ponds, 2005). While there are a multitude of reasons why we forget, as noted above,
forgetting does not lead automatically to brain or memory disorders (Valentijn, et al., 2005).
Psycho-education for clients who are concerned about forgetting can be helpful in alleviating fear and anxiety (Valentijn, et al., 2005).
These three articles provide insight into the impacts of depression and anxiety on memory loss as well as an intervention approach to use with older adults:
(Click on each title to view the related article)
For many people over the age of 40, forgetting happens more frequently and can lead to anxiety about permanent memory loss (Valentijn, van Hooren, Bosma, Touw, Jolles, Boxtel, & Ponds, 2005). While there are a multitude of reasons why we forget, as noted above,
forgetting does not lead automatically to brain or memory disorders (Valentijn, et al., 2005).
Psycho-education for clients who are concerned about forgetting can be helpful in alleviating fear and anxiety (Valentijn, et al., 2005).
These three articles provide insight into the impacts of depression and anxiety on memory loss as well as an intervention approach to use with older adults:
(Click on each title to view the related article)
Cultural factors must also be considered in the
therapeutic process when address learning and memory concerns.
Some cultures place significance on remembering the past; other cultures intentionally dissociate from painful memories to facilitate healing (Staniloiu & Markowitsch, 2012). Although there are pros and cons to each approach, what matters is the cultural influence on each individual’s perspective in addressing trauma. Culturally competent counsellors will ensure the worldview of the client is considered in relation to exploring trauma, PTSD, depression, and other facets of mental health.
therapeutic process when address learning and memory concerns.
Some cultures place significance on remembering the past; other cultures intentionally dissociate from painful memories to facilitate healing (Staniloiu & Markowitsch, 2012). Although there are pros and cons to each approach, what matters is the cultural influence on each individual’s perspective in addressing trauma. Culturally competent counsellors will ensure the worldview of the client is considered in relation to exploring trauma, PTSD, depression, and other facets of mental health.