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The distribution and the functions of autobiographical memories: Why do older adults remember autobiographical memories from their youth?

Author

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  • Tabea Wolf

    (Ulm University)

  • Daniel Zimprich

    (Ulm University)

Abstract

In the present study, the distribution of autobiographical memories was examined from a functional perspective: we examined whether the extent to which long-term autobiographical memories were rated as having a self-, a directive, or a social function affects the location (mean age) and scale (standard deviation) of the memory distribution. Analyses were based on a total of 5598 autobiographical memories generated by 149 adults aged between 50 and 81 years in response to 51 cue-words. Participants provided their age at the time when the recalled events had happened and rated how frequently they recall these events for self-, directive, and social purposes. While more frequently using autobiographical memories for self-functions was associated with an earlier mean age, memories frequently shared with others showed a narrower distribution around a later mean age. The directive function, by contrast, did not affect the memory distribution. The results strengthen the assumption that experiences from an individual’s late adolescence serve to maintain a sense of self-continuity throughout the lifespan. Experiences that are frequently shared with others, in contrast, stem from a narrow age range located in young adulthood.

Suggested Citation

  • Tabea Wolf & Daniel Zimprich, 2016. "The distribution and the functions of autobiographical memories: Why do older adults remember autobiographical memories from their youth?," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 13(3), pages 241-250, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:eujoag:v:13:y:2016:i:3:d:10.1007_s10433-016-0372-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s10433-016-0372-5
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