Differences Between True and False Autobiographical Memories

Abstract: Despite a number of real-life cases of false memories and various studies on the suggestion of false memories, little attention has been paid to the distinction between true and false memory reports. The present review summarizes the current state of research on comparing true and false memories. After an extensive search, n = 22 articles (24 studies) were included in the scoping review. From 70 statement characteristics, seven yielded significant differences that have been repeatedly obtained and outnumbered null results. From 61 self-evaluations, significant differences were found repeatedly and more often than null results for seven variables. However, due to substantial conceptual caveats in 18 studies, robust differences between true and false memories are documented for only six variables – three self-report measures (subjective confidence, vividness/clarity, auditory experience) and three statement characteristics (number of idea units, number of words, amount/quantity of details). Differences do not guarantee discriminability, however. Therefore, we argue that reliable and valid indicators for forensic practice may not be derived. Instead, we put forward several recommendations for future research, which is urgently needed.