Cited by 63Memory Processes and InfluencesIdentity, Memory, and TherapyPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Research

Traumatic Memories are Not Necessarily Accurate Memories

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Laney, Cara, Loftus, Elizabeth F·2005·The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry

Abstract

Some therapists, as well as other commentators, have suggested that memories of horrific trauma are buried in the subconscious by some special process, such as repression, and are later reliably recovered. We find that the evidence provided to support this claim is flawed. Where, then, might these memory reports come from? We discuss several research paradigms that have shown that various manipulations can be used to implant false memories—including false memories for traumatic events. These false memories can be quite compelling for those who develop them and can include details that make them seem credible to others. The fact that a memory report describes a traumatic event does not ensure that the memory is authentic.

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Crossref · 10.1177/070674370505001303

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Authors
Laney, C., & Loftus, E. F.
Affiliations
University of California, Irvine (US)
Corresponding author
Loftus, Elizabeth F
Venue
The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry
Published
2005-11
Volume
50
Issue
13
Pages
823-828
ISSN
  • 0706-7437 (ISSN-L)
  • 1497-0015
OpenAlex
W1480323311
Cited by
63
References
59
Citations by year
2026: 5 · 2025: 2 · 2024: 3 · 2023: 3 · 2022: 3 · 2021: 1 · 2020: 1 · 2019: 3 · 2018: 1 · 2017: 2 · 2016: 3 · 2015: 3 · 2014: 2 · 2013: 1 · 2012: 1
FWCI
0.61
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Locations
  • The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
Funders
National Institute of Mental Health (T32 MH19958-06, T32MH019958)
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cognitive Neuroscience › Memory Processes and Influences
  • Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Identity, Memory, and Therapy
  • Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Research
Keywords
false memory, traumatic memory, memory accuracy, repression, memory recovery, memory implantation, memory distortion
MeSH terms
Child, Child Abuse, Sexual, Humans, Memory Disorders, Repression, Psychology, Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic

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