Document Type
Article
Language
eng
Format of Original
8 p.
Publication Date
7-2007
Publisher
Elsevier
Source Publication
Neurobiology of Learning and Memory
Source ISSN
1074-7427
Original Item ID
doi: 10.1016/j.nlm.2007.03.005
Abstract
The consolidation of newly formed memories occurs slowly, allowing memories to be altered by experience for some time after their formation. Various treatments, including arousal, can modulate memory consolidation when given soon after learning, but the degree of time-dependency of these treatments in humans has not been studied. Thus, 212 participants learned a word list, which was followed by either a positively or negatively valenced arousing video clip (i.e., comedy or surgery, respectively) after delays of 0, 10, 30 or 45 min. Arousal of either valence induced up to 30 min after learning, but not after 45 min, significantly enhanced one-week retrieval. The findings support (1) the time-dependency of memory modulation in humans and (2) other studies that suggest that it is the degree of arousal, rather than valence that modulates memory. Important implications for developing memory intervention strategies and for preserving and validating witness testimony are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Nielson, Kristy A. and Powless, Mark R., "Positive and Negative Sources of Emotional Arousal Enhance Long-Term Word-List Retention When Induced as Long as 30 Min After Learning" (2007). Psychology Faculty Research and Publications. 112.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/psych_fac/112
Comments
NOTICE: this is the author’s version of a work that was accepted for publication in Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. Changes resulting from the publishing process, such as peer review, editing, corrections, structural formatting, and other quality control mechanisms may not be reflected in this document. Changes may have been made to this work since it was submitted for publication. A definitive version was subsequently published in Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, Vol. 88, No. 1 (July 2007): 40-47. DOI. © Elsevier 2007. Used with permission.