Abstract
In this chapter, we will consider the nature of human memory. A key distinction is initially made in terms of explicit versus implicit memory. Explicit memory is then considered through the framework of the autobiographical memory system. This includes the self-memory system, which defines who we are and what our important goals are. Some autobiographical memories can be very strong and include emotional elements. These have been termed “self-defining memories”, and it is suggested that such memories will make up a significant part of client discourse in therapy. Such self-defining memories will often relate to important psychological needs, such as attachment and our early relationships with significant others. At the same time, much of our learning is implicit, including how our early relational patterns play out in our adult lives. Our earliest experience is likely to be mainly of this type, given the phenomenon of infantile amnesia. Finally, our schematic ways of relating may also play out in the therapy room, in the relationship between the therapist and client, through schematic transference or counter-schematic transference.
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Notes
- 1.
This is a reminiscence from TW.
- 2.
We use the terms here, and throughout the book, which were given in the original research reports. We do not condone such terms and would normally seek to use non-pathologizing descriptions.
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Ward, T., Plagnol, A. (2019). Defined by Our Past. In: Cognitive Psychodynamics as an Integrative Framework in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-25823-8_4
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