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Oversimplification in the Study of Emotional Memory

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 September 2013

Kelly A. Bennion ,
Jaclyn H. Ford ,
Brendan D. Murray  and
Elizabeth A. Kensinger
Kelly A. Bennion
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Jaclyn H. Ford
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Brendan D. Murray
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Elizabeth A. Kensinger*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
*
Correspondence and reprint requests to: Elizabeth A. Kensinger, McGuinn Hall, Room 300, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467. E-mail: elizabeth.kensinger@bc.edu
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Abstract

This Short Review critically evaluates three hypotheses about the effects of emotion on memory: First, emotion usually enhances memory. Second, when emotion does not enhance memory, this can be understood by the magnitude of physiological arousal elicited, with arousal benefiting memory to a point but then having a detrimental influence. Third, when emotion facilitates the processing of information, this also facilitates the retention of that same information. For each of these hypotheses, we summarize the evidence consistent with it, present counter-evidence suggesting boundary conditions for the effect, and discuss the implications for future research. (JINS, 2013, 19, 1–9)

Keywords

AffectEpisodic memoryLimbic systemLong-term memoryRecallRecognitionStress
Type
Short Review
Information
Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society , Volume 19 , Issue 9 , October 2013 , pp. 953 - 961
Copyright
Copyright © The International Neuropsychological Society 2013 

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