A recent study reported that human memory could be altered on the fly, developing memories created by individuals daily. The study authors investigated the mystery behind this scenario by making individuals forget a few things.
One of the leading authors, Allie Sinclair, stated that there is a misconception that individuals’ memory operates as a video camera. Memory editing helps individuals learn from the errors and integrates previous memories with new information.
The study authors reiterated the individual’s ability to alter and develop false memories when required. The process is not complex, but its reliable as a person’s brain reconstructs the experience and alters the memory in the process.
How the study authors conducted their study
The study authors focused on a target population of an estimated two dozen respondents who observed 70 short and distinctive video clips. The watching of the video clips revealed that most of the Respondents enjoyed the task, which made the results conclusive.
The Respondents were then issued another set of video clips to watch the following day. However, the clips were halted at the crucial part of the clip. These moments include a feature such as a baseball batter executing a swing at the pitch or a moment of truth.
The study authors recalled the Respondents the following day. They asked them to attempt remembering the number and titles of the clips they had watched since the beginning of the experiment.
Surprise altered hippocampal functioning
Sinclair further stated that an individual’s brain is severely affected by the element of surprise that increases specific neuromodulatory systems such as dopamine, among others. A surprising event leads a person’s brain to release the transmitters, which helps one thoroughly remember the events.
With the assistance of the MRI, the study reported that the element of surprise altered the function of a crucial part of the brain known as the hippocampus. The hippocampus is in charge of developing, recalling, and editing an individual’s memory.
However, following the surprising halt, the region started updating uploaded memories, thus editing and developing them. The disruption made the area create fake memories, as visibly observed by the respondents.
