Remembering and forgetting: A dynamic social retrieval theory of posttraumatic stress

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress is about memory; distressing and intrusive memories of a traumatic event. Although considerable focus has been on initial encoding, memory processes after the traumatic event are likely as important if not more important for facilitating resilience, natural recovery, and therapeutic recovery. In this proposed dynamic social retrieval theory (DSRT) of posttraumatic stress, ongoing retrieval and related forgetting processes shape the changing nature of the trauma memory. Retrieval events number in the hundreds, thousands, or even more, strengthening some memory traces and associations and weakening others. These retrieval events take many forms from conversations with friends and loved ones, social media interactions, intentional recall, spontaneous thoughts, cued- and un-cued reexperiencing, and avoidance of trauma reminders. We argue that the initial days, weeks, and months are important; through systems consolidation, the memory shifts to a more general, gist-like representation, incorporating social/cultural schemas and one's view of self. Better orthogonalized, separation from other related memories can further result in the reduction of trauma-related psychopathology. Clinical implications highlight the importance of adaptive retrieval in daily life, in social interactions and cultural messaging, and within the therapeutic relationship to shape the long-term nature of the traumatic memory and help the trauma survivor flourish.