Repressed Memory Essay

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Repressed memory is the involuntary block on a memory considered to be extremely stressful and appalling in nature. It is theorized that repressed memory is a form of amnesia that is not associated with typical forgetfulness in a person. When a person experiences something extremely severe in nature, such as childhood sexual abuse for example, their mind sometimes refuses to remember that event because it is so painful to recall. In some cases events of extreme trauma, often during adulthood such as post-traumatic stress, can actually cause a reverse effect and an increase in memorability. Some even believe that it is possible to repress memories voluntarily. It has been a topic that has eluded many psychologists today and has been thoroughly researched for the past century. This paper will explore different theories and ideas on whether or not repression is true or just another pseudo-science.
Ever since it was thought of by psychologist Sigmund Freud the topic has been a debatable one for some time now with critics on both sides arguing over its validity. Many psychologists have claimed that the research is preposterous and impossible to prove. One researcher in particular, Dr. Richard J. McNally, is quoted in an article saying, “The notion that traumatic events can be repressed and later recovered is the most pernicious bit of folklore ever to infect psychology and psychiatry” (Media Report). In the past 30 years individuals have begun coming forth claiming that they were victims of childhood sexual abuse, CSA, years prior to sharing with media. The victims claimed that they had not recalled the abuse until recently and had been repressing the memory of it. Ever since then researchers have been looking for answers in...

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...hat there is no clear way to prove it or disprove it yet with research we have today. More research in the field is required to learn whether or not the concept is true. It seems that this century old debate will continue on for who knows how many years.
It is hard for me to say whether or not I strongly believe in one side or the other. While both sides make compelling arguments their contradictions towards one another keep me on the fence. The theory doesn’t seem to have much support on a neurological level however with the amount of individuals coming forth claiming they suffer from it the odds of it being coincidental seem slim. That being said little to no solid experimental evidence has been done that can prove its existence. Honestly I hope that repression is not something that really does exist because if it is true then that means anyone could be a victim.

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