Effects of View of Life and Selection Bias on Emotional Memory in Old Age

Abstract

Many studies have documented that we remember less negative information as we grow older. The present study examined the effects of view of life and selection bias on this positivity effect using an emotional picture memory task. Young adults were tested in the laboratory, and older adults were either tested in the laboratory or at home. Results confirmed a positivity effect in old age. Selection bias and view of life did not significantly influence older adults’ emotional memory as predicted. Metamemory, however, was affected by selection bias: Older adults tested in the laboratory had higher self-rated memory scores than those who tested at home.