Qualitative Characteristics of Memories for Real, Imagined, and Media-Based Events

Abstract

Abstract People's memories must be able to represent experiences with multiple types of origins—including the real world and our own imaginations, but also printed texts (prose-based media), movies, and television (screen-based media). This study was intended to identify cues that distinguish prose- and screen-based media memories from each other, as well as from reality- and imagination-based memories. Using a modified Memory Characteristics Questionnaire, the study asked people to rate memories of these 4 types on sensory, cognitive, and contextual elements. Overall, prose-based media have a greater resemblance to imagination, whereas screen-based media have a greater resemblance to reality. Media as an overarching category are not distinguished by any particular pattern of characteristics, except for relatively low frequency of consideration after the event. However, the cue patterns that mark particular media, as well as content cues, may help to explain the ease with which people generally identify memories for media-based events.