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Review
. 2018 Aug 28;20(10):87.
doi: 10.1007/s11920-018-0950-7.

Memory and Forgetting

Chris R Brewin  1
Affiliations
Review

Memory and Forgetting

Chris R Brewin. Curr Psychiatry Rep. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: I summarize recent developments in understanding the phenomenology of memory in PTSD, describe the most prominent theoretical models, and outline new forms of treatment aimed at modifying the traumatic memory.

Recent findings: Intrusive memories that have the quality of being relived in the present have been highlighted in ICD-11. Debate over whether trauma memories are disorganized has led to a distinction between global narratives that are usually well rehearsed and episodic memories of the most frightening moments when disruptions and fragmentation may occur. Attempts to prevent the initial consolidation of trauma memories have promise in prevention but face practical difficulties. Theoretical developments have led to a number of promising treatments for established PTSD including pre-retrieval propranolol and imagery rescripting. Research has suggested real possibilities to improve the prevention and treatment of PTSD by modifying trauma recall even though the theoretical basis for these interventions remains controversial.

Keywords: Imagery; PTSD; Reconsolidation; Retrieval; Therapy; Trauma.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest

Chris R. Brewin declares no conflict of interest.

Human and Animal Rights and Informed Consent

This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

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