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Motivated forgetting is a theorized psychological behavior in which people may forget unwanted memories, either consciously or unconsciously. [1] It is an example of a defence mechanism, since these are unconscious or conscious coping techniques used to reduce anxiety arising from unacceptable or potentially harmful impulses thus it can be a defence mechanism in some ways. [2]
One ethical question that arises is the idea that although there are some extremely painful memories that some people (for example PTSD patients) would like to be rid of, not all unpleasant memories are bad. [7] The ability to soften or erase memories could have drastic effects on how society functions.
Loss of painful memories may actually end up causing more harm in some cases. Painful, frightening or even traumatic memories can serve to teach a person to avoid certain situations or experiences. By erasing those memories their adaptive function , to warn and protect individuals may be lost.
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Due to the elusive nature of involuntary recurrent memories, very little is known about the subjective experience of flashbacks. However, theorists agree that this phenomenon is in part due to the manner in which memories of specific events are initially encoded (or entered) into memory, the way in which the memory is organized, and also the way in which the individual later recalls the event. [5]
While some memories are retained for a lifetime, most memories are forgotten. [3] According to evolutionary psychologists, forgetting is adaptive because it facilitates selectivity of rapid, efficient recollection. [4] For example, a person trying to remember where they parked their car would not want to remember every place they have ever parked.
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Selective amnesia is a type of amnesia in which the sufferer loses only certain parts of their memory.Common elements that may be forgotten are relationships, where they live, and certain special abilities and talents (e.g., juggling, whistling, instrumental talents, etc.).