Repressed Memories Forgotten

Abstract A repressed memory is the memory of a traumatic incident unconsciously reserved in the mind, where it is said to unfavorably affect conscious thought, desire, and action (Carroll 1).
Many psychologists believe that unconscious repression of traumatic experiences such as sexual abuse or rape is a defense mechanism which backfires (Carroll 1). These experiences are slowly bought back to memory, sometimes taking all the way up to 40 years for vivid details. Researchers have attempted to uncover the mystery behind repression. Are these memories false memories, or are they repressed memories? Can horrifying episodes be forgotten? Does a theory of this nature stand a chance in court? These questions will be attempted to be answered and if not answered, provide one with more knowledge on the topic.

What are repressed memories? Repressed memories are actual memories that have been pushed out of consciousness because they are emotionally forewarned (Kosslyn & Rosenberg). Why does something
"Most people do not forget traumatic experiences unless they are rendered unconscious at the time of the experience (Carroll 1)." On the other hand, "studies have shown that people routinely fail to remember significant life events even a year after they have occurred. One study consisted of interviews with 590 persons known to have been injury-producing motor vehicle accidents during the previous year. Approximately 14% did not remember the accident a year later (Loftus 522)." People may forget the experience but only for a short period of time. "An estimate was obtained in a study of 100 women in outpatient treatment for substance abuse in a New York City hospital. More the one half of the women in this sample reported memory of childhood sexual abuse. The vast majority of them remembered the abuse their whole lives. Only 18% claimed that they forgot the abuse for a period of time and later regained the memory (Loftus