PSY 211 Lecture Notes - Lecture 14: Autobiographical Memory, Prefrontal Cortex, Temporal Lobe
Document Summary
We remember many details right after an even happened, but less as time goes on. Memories can be lost, change their character, or might end up changed from what actually happened. We combine what actually happened with other things that have happened and our general knowledge about how things usually happen. Memories aren"t immediately stored in a stable form. Consolidation - necessary to transform new memories from an initial fragile state, in which they can be disrupted to a more permanent state, in which they are resistant to disruption. Happens behind the scene for memory that is being stored. Sleep is one prominent factor in ensuring good consolidation. Autobiographical memory - memory for specific experiences from our life, which can include both episodic and semantic components. It plays a central role in shaping how each of us thinks about ourselves and how we behave. This type of memory is multidimensional, consisting of spatial, emotional, and sensory components.
