Remembering and imagining: The role of the self

TitleRemembering and imagining: The role of the self
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsClare J. Rathbone, Martin A. Conway, Chris J.A. Moulin
JournalConsciousness & Cognition
Volume20
Issue4
Pagination1175-1182
ISSN10538100
Call Number66745831
Abstract

Abstract: This study investigated whether temporal clustering of autobiographical memories (AMs) around periods of self-development () would also occur when imagining future events associated with the self. Participants completed an AM task and future thinking task. In both tasks, memories and future events were cued using participant-generated identity statements (e.g., I am a student; I will be a mother). Participants then dated their memories and future events, and finally gave an age at which each identity statement was judged to emerge. Dates of memories and future events were recoded as temporal distance from the identity statement used to cue them. AMs and future events both clustered robustly around periods of self-development, indicating the powerful organisational effect of the self. We suggest that life narrative structures are used to organise future events as well as memories. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
Copyright of Consciousness & Cognition is the property of Academic Press Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

DOI10.1016/j.concog.2011.02.013
Short TitleRemembering and imagining