Bibliographic details and abstracts are available to all. Downloads of full-text dissertations are restricted to University of Portsmouth members who must login. MPhils may be accessed by all.

Abstract

This dissertation has set out to explore the effects of typical and atypical development on autobiographical memory (AM). AM is a uniquely human facility which is essential to social interaction and the development of self – arguably underpinning what it means to be human.
The first chapter discusses different theories of normative development of AM facilities; including, cognitive, neuroscienctific and socio-linguistic. Research exposes limitations with all three theories and instead concludes with a discussion of Bauer’s complementary processing account, which integrated all three previously explored theories. Next this dissertation explores the connection between the development of self-concept and AM. A sense of self is essential to AM development, as the self grounds these experiential memories. Although it is uncertain as to whether AM of self-concept develops first, it is clear that there is a bi-lateral relationship between the two. Furthermore, this relationship becomes clear when exploring the effects AM has upon identity creation. AMs centre around emotion and the way that these autobiographical narratives are discussed with others, particularly parents, can affect how these memories are internalised; thus shaping one’s identity. Furthermore, it is possible to see the bilateral relationship between AM and self-concept by addressing the impact of gendered and cultural selves upon AM. The internalisation of cultural and gender norms can lead to individuals from individualistic cultures producing greater self-orientated AM narratives, and women to be more emotive in the autobiographical remembering. Finally this dissertation explores atypical development upon AM facilities, looking specifically at AM impairment and Autism. Studying atypical development is essential to, not only further understand AM development in general, but to also understand the impact of AM impairment upon individuals. Thus far this dissertation has discussed typical development and the relation to the self both of which underpin this final chapter. Diminished self awareness, linked to lack of theory of mind and executive dysfunctions are explored in depth as a cause of AM impairment.

Course: Childhood and Youth Studies with Psychology - BA (Hons)

Date Deposited: 2021-02-03

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13652.html