Positive Emotional Induction Interferes with the Reconsolidation of Negative Autobiographical Memories, in women only.

PIÑEYRO M, FERRER MONTI RI, DÍAZ H, BUENO AM, BUSTOS SG, MOLINA VA.

NEUROBIOLOGY OF LEARNING AND MEMORY

ACADEMIC PRESS INC ELSEVIER SCIENCE

Lugar: Amsterdam; Año: 2018 vol. 155 p. 508 - 518

1074-7427

After reactivation, a previously consolidated memory can enter into a labile state followed by a re-stabilizationprocess defined as reconsolidation. The aim of this study was to explore whether an existing negative autobiographical memory can be modified by using a non-invasive interference (audiovisual positive preparation)after reactivation and to determine if this effect could be dependent on the reconsolidation process. We foundthat the presentation of a positive inductor after a negative autobiographical memory reactivation may lead to achange in the emotional information of the original trace and that such effect can be mediated by the reconsolidation process. The modification of the memory has been shown in women only. These results suggestthat a positive audiovisual induction may play a potential role in psychotherapeutic techniques for the modification of dysfunctional autobiographical memories.