This phenomenon, central to the study of memory, describes a process where individuals unintentionally alter their memories, often suppressing unpleasant or distressing experiences. It involves a psychological defense mechanism where memories that cause anxiety, shame, or guilt are subconsciously pushed out of awareness. A common instance involves an individual struggling to recall details of a traumatic event, not due to neurological damage, but rather because remembering evokes significant emotional distress.
Understanding this process is crucial for therapeutic interventions, particularly in addressing trauma and related disorders. Its existence highlights the dynamic and reconstructive nature of memory, illustrating how emotional states can influence what is remembered and forgotten. Historically, the concept gained prominence through the work of Sigmund Freud, who emphasized the role of repression in shaping the unconscious mind and influencing behavior.
