Repressed Memories Papers

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Repressed memories, also known as dissociative amnesia, are common in individuals who have experienced childhood trauma (Harley, 2024). These memories can lead to memory loss, low self-esteem, substance abuse disorders, increased physical or mental illnesses, and interpersonal problems (Harley, 2024). Traumatic experiences, particularly in childhood, are the most common cause of repressed memories. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are used to calculate a person's ACE score, which is one point per trauma experienced before age 18 (Harley, 2024). Research has found that those with high ACE scores are at an increased risk for developing various social, psychological, and health-related conditions in adulthood, including complex post-traumatic …show more content…
Dissociation involves detaching from thoughts, feelings, or body, and is common in trauma survivors (Harley, 2024). Repressed memories can cause feelings of reliving the traumatic experience, anxiety, panic attacks, and strong negative emotions. Black-and-white thinking can cause extreme mood swings, overreactions, impulses, and dysfunctional relationships. Trust issues can lead to avoidance of new relationships and hyper-independence (Harley, 2024). False memories may be a result of dissociative amnesia or …show more content…
Dissociative episodes involve losing touch with oneself or reality, often triggered by overwhelming or upset situations. These episodes can occur at any time and can be triggered by emotional detachedness, out-of-body experiences, or a dream-like state. Trauma survivors often exhibit avoidant behaviors, such as avoiding certain people, places, or situations that trigger traumatic memories (Harley, 2024). While there is no proven method to retrieve repressed memories, therapy and treatment can help process them. Evidence-based treatments include cognitive processing therapy (CPT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), CBT for PTSD, and accelerated resolution therapy. It is crucial to choose a therapist specializing in trauma-informed therapy (Harley,