The authors review research showing that when recalling autobiographical events, many emotionally disturbed patients summarize categories of events rather than retrieving a single episode. The mechanisms underlying such overgeneral memory are examined, with a focus on M. A. Conway and C. W. Pleydell-Pearce's (2000) hierarchical search model of…

Reviewed studies on reminiscence and life review to examine both developmentalist and interpretive approaches to interpreting such studies. Used interpretive approach, particularly Goffman's dramaturgical approach, to further understand objective of reminiscence and to see how social element emphasized by interpretive approach can be deciding…

Provides theoretical underpinnings for reminiscence by reviewing and evaluating previous research, and integrating it within a theoretical framework. Using continuity theory perspective, generates propositions that may facilitate reminiscence research across the life span. Three global functions of reminiscence are derived--private, social, and…

Reviews the literature on the role of self understanding, language, theory of mind, attachment security, and parental style in children's autobiographical memory development. Discusses evidence that social-cognitive factors appear to interact with parental style in producing children's first verbal memories. Emotional factors, such as attachment…

In its most recent phase of return and reconciliation, autobiography of the Black south demonstrates the regaining of freedom on southern soil, an act of transcendence that transforms the previous scene of oppression into a sanctuary of beloved community. Examples of autobiographical works of reconciliation are reviewed. (SLD)