Maladaptive Use of Autobiographical Memory by Bereaved Individuals Across Adulthood. (16th December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wolf, Tabea; Strack, Veronika; Bluck, Susan
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 4(2020)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 606
• Page End: 606
• Publication Date: 2020-12-16
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa057.2047
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Remembering one's personal past can serve adaptive psychosocial functions (Bluck, Alea, & Demiray, 2010). Autobiographical remembering has been related to well-being in older age but little research has focused on grief. We address this issue in two studies grounded in the model of reminiscence and health in older adulthood (Cappeliez & O'Rourke, 2006). Participants (aged 18 - 91) completed the Reminiscence Functions Scale and the Inventory of Complicated Grief. Regression analyses show that negative self-related use of memories, but not positive use, is associated with experiencing more grief. Sharing memories with others (pro-social function) is indirectly linked to grief, as mediated by negative self-related uses. These patterns held for autobiographical recall in general (Study 1; N = 51) and when specifically remembering the deceased person (Study 2; N = 49). How adaptively individuals remember their personal past appears linked to the experience of grief, sometimes even years after the loss.