Memory: Friend or foe? Memory beliefs in the twenty-first century: Why the science matters

‘Memory’ is our closest ally; it defines who we are. Our memories for past experiences are ever present, ready for us to pluck out and revisit – or are they? Do we - or more precisely - you, need to know more about the science of memory, including what the lay public do and don’t understand? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’. The scientific evidence is clear – ‘memory’ is not common sense. Misbeliefs about its function may have adverse effects. This presentation will discuss the results of a recent nationwide survey of memory beliefs amongst the lay public and therapeutic professionals with a special focus on EMDR practitioners. The impact of these misunderstandings on clinical outcomes and testimonial (evidential) reliability in justice settings will be briefly considered.

Conference

English

Pamela Radcliffe

Radcliffe, P. (2024, March). Memory: Friend or foe? Memory beliefs in the twenty-first century: Why the science matters. Presentation at the EMDR UK Association, York, UK