2024-04-21 03:24:54
Researchers at Rice University in Texas (USA) conducted a study in which they found that we tend to remember only certain aspects of an experience – such as the big picture or the overall context – rather than the finer details.
As a result, we are more likely to forget smaller, mundane events, such as whether we locked the door at home.
To better understand how human memory works, graduate student Fernanda Morales-Calva and assistant professor Stephanie Leal conducted a study in which 38 participants were shown pictures. In the memory test, some pictures were shown repeatedly and others were shown for the first time.
Some of the pictures were very similar – and their purpose was to disrupt the memory by simulating our everyday, ordinary experiences, such as locking a door.
The study found that the most memorable images for the participants were colorful, had people in them, or were not overloaded with details.
Although participants correctly remembered and recognized these most memorable images, they tended to forget them 24 hours later. According to the researchers, this is relevant for remembering positive experiences, suggesting that these experiences are initially remembered but are later more likely to be forgotten.
Although emotions are generally thought to enhance memory processes, people tend to remember the “gist” or main aspect of an experience rather than additional details. According to the researchers, the passage of time makes this effect even stronger.
For example, when trying to remember what you did last year, you can remember many different things. However, few of these memories can be very detailed – for example, you might remember that you went on holiday, but you probably won’t remember the activities of each day.
The results of the study showed that the emotions experienced, the time that has passed since the event, and the characteristics of the perception of the event, all play a significant role in whether we will remember the details of the event.
“Previous research has found that it is very likely that experiences that are memorable for one person are also memorable for another person, such as a birthday celebration, the death of a loved one, etc.,” says S. Leal. – These are often positive or negative experiences. This knowledge has helped us to develop research that examines how memory works.”
One of the reasons we don’t remember everything we experience is because our brains have a limited capacity.
“Our brains can’t remember everything we experience, so we have to sort of selectively forget less important information,” Leal said. “This research helps us get closer to understanding why we remember what we remember.”
The findings of the study have been published žurnale „Neurobiology of Learning and Memory“.
Parenting page “Newsweek”.
2024-04-21 03:24:54