Flashbulb memories

Many memorable life experiences are associated with strong emotions, and therefore are more easily recalled. One type of memory that heavily involves emotion is flashbulb memory, which entail very detailed memories from emotionally charged, significant events. The term “flashbulb” comes from the comparison that these memories feel as if a light bulb has illuminated a scene and recorded everything around an individual in relation to an event. These memories are often recalled with extreme detail; where one was, who they were with, and the emotions linked to the event are often remembered.

Flashbulb memories can be consistent between individuals, as some events can be significant to a group of people. For instance, many of the people who were old enough to comprehend the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 have a flashbulb memory attached to the event. Many of them will be able to remember exactly who they were with, what they were feeling, and where they were during the attacks. From my personal experience, I remember vividly the details surrounding the near death experience my brother had where he almost passed away due to choking. I remember what I had for breakfast that day, the conversations I had with my brother, mom, and sister, where I was when he started choking, and every detail of the events surrounding it. I remember running up the stairs into my room and bouncing on my bed with my sister, trying to distract ourselves from my mother and little brother a floor down. I remember feeling extremely scared, hearing my mother, and looking down at my brother. The strong emotions linked to this event have carried on, even though this happened over 13 years ago.

While I recall this memory very easily and they may feel more accurate than others, researchers have suggested that flashbulb memories are not any more accurate than regular memories. This concept has been contentious in the field of memory, as some studies link accuracy and consistency being heightened in flashbulb memories. Those opposed to the idea that flashbulb memories are not any more accurate than regular memories have suggested that flashbulb memories are not a special segment of memories, but increased confidence in our recollection of them comes from the emotional link that an individual has to them.

Flashbulb memories link memorable life events and emotion, allowing our recollection of such an event to be easier and more vivid as well. Impactful events in our past and our emotions that are linked to them allow for these memories to be remembered consistently over time; the emotional linkage to an event in the past creates such a strong imprint on the brain that it is remembered vividly for many years after the fact. From personal experience, I can say that I will never forget the details surrounding my brother’s near death choking incident, and will always have strong emotions linked to it. While there is debate over the level of accuracy these memories present, no one can deny the profound impact such memories have on an individual and their emotions.