Introduction
Flashbulb memories are exceptional recollections of specific experiences, distinguished by their vividness and emotional gravity. These recollections often revolve around important and horrific events, such as the 9/11 attacks, which forever altered the course of human history due to the loss of lives. Exploring the phenomenon of flashbulb memories, delving into major theories, characteristics, and criticisms, and providing a personal example is crucial in illustrating the impact of these events on an individual’s life.
The Phenomenon of Flashbulb Memories
Recollections of emotionally intense events that are vividly detailed are known as flashbulb memories. Prominent theorists such as Roger Brown and James Kulik have thoroughly studied these distinct memory events (Ariane et al., 2023). Intense emotions, extraordinary clarity, and a strong sense of correctness are crucial components of flashbulb memories. These qualities distinguish them from ordinary recollections and demonstrate their unique ability to capture essential moments.
Some essential characteristics define flashbulb memories in people’s lives. On page 222, Feldman (2021) writes, “flashbulb memories do not contain every detail of an original scene.” Unexpected, emotionally charged occurrences of personal significance often cause these memories. Other events, such as the death of a notable person or natural catastrophes, further demonstrate their prevalence in human life.
Although flashbulb recollections are intense and emotionally charged, studies have questioned their accuracy and reliability. Elements such as false details and source monitoring errors may impact the accuracy of remembering over time (Jalbert et al., 2021). Even when compared to actual event recordings or longitudinal evaluations, discrepancies exist in the recall accuracy of flashbulb recollections.
Personal Experience of a Flashbulb Memory
I can clearly remember the day my life fell apart when I lost my husband in an unexpected accident. When my phone rang, I was at work and entirely focused on my usual responsibilities. My heart sank when I heard the shaky voice on the other end of the call. As I tried to process the news, time seemed to stop. He had been at a mechanic shop when an unlucky accident left him with severe wounds.
Despite the most extraordinary efforts of medical personnel, he was declared dead after being rushed to the emergency department. The news hit me with a force I had never experienced before, leaving every detail ingrained in my mind. The weight of the impending truth began to press down on me; tears started to flow down my face. As the shock of the disaster engulfed my senses, the environment became irrelevant. My memory of that moment is firmly carved with every sound, scent, and touch.
Although my flashbulb recollection was very emotional and precise, memories can become skewed over time. The birth of my son, after her father’s death, encouraged me. Although specific facts may have become vague with time, the emotional effect remains very much there. The characteristics of flashbulb recollections, such as the astonishment and emotional upheaval experienced during the event, give me a sense of confidence that the memory’s core is accurate.
Reflecting on my experience, I realize that it fits into the category of flashbulb recollections. There is no doubt that the experience is a perfect example of this kind of memory due to its unexpected and intense emotional aspect. However, I am aware that, like any long-term memory, there may be slight alterations over time.
Conclusion
Flashbulb memories are unforgettable because they preserve in-depth recollections of significant events, such as the 9/11 attacks, and intimate situations, like the loss of a loved one. My experience of losing my spouse is a powerful illustration of the persistent effects of flashbulb memories on people and society. I can vividly recall the emotional gravity of losing my husband. These memories shape individuals’ most significant events due to their emotional intensity and vividness.
References
Ariane, R., Bortolon, C., Mohamad El Haj, Capdevielle, D., & Stéphane Raffard. (2023). “I remember the attack”: A pilot study investigating flashbulb memory in individuals with schizophrenia. Current Psychology, 1–11. Web.
Feldman, R. S. (2021). Understanding psychology (14th ed.). Mcgraw-Hill Education.
Jalbert, M. C., Wulff, A. N., & Hyman, I. E. (2021). Stealing and sharing memories: Source monitoring biases following collaborative remembering. Cognition, 211, 1–10. Web.