The influence of mood on self-defining memories

Raymond, Katrina A.

Abstract

The portfolio has three parts. Part one is a systematic literature review, in which the empirical literature relating to self-defining memories is reviewed. The term 'selfdefining memories' which was first coined by Singer and Moffitt (1991-1992), refers to a subcategory of autobiographical memories that are of important events in our personal histories that we believe define who we are (Singer, 2005). The systematic literature review presented in this portfolio examines which factors may affect the recollection of SDMs recall in terms of the types of memories recalled, but also the experience of recalling such poignant memories.

Part two is an empirical paper, which explores the how changes in mood may affect the recollection of self-defining memories. This investigation uses laboratory induced changes in mood to examine how mood variation may affect the thematic content, and affective response to SDMs in a group of individuals with bipolar disorder, and nonclinical controls. The findings suggested partial support for the hypotheses that mood does influence the type of SDMs recalled, affective responses to memories, and perception of positive self when thinking of the memories. However, contrary to predictions, the effect of mood was not found to differ between individuals with bipolar disorder and non-clinical controls. Interestingly, this study found that individuals with bipolar disorder recalled memories that contained themes of a disrupted sense of identity, or acting out of character, when by their nature, SDMs are meant to reflect events that an individual feels defines who they are rather than who they are not.

Part three comprises the appendices. This part contains additional information relating to the literature review and empirical paper, including information about ethical approval.

Citation

Raymond, K. A. (2009). The influence of mood on self-defining memories. (Thesis). University of Hull. Retrieved from https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4209207

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 16, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 22, 2023
• Keywords: Medicine; Psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4209207
• Additional Information: Postgraduate Medical Institute, The University of Hull
• Award Date: Sep 1, 2009