traumatic memory theory

Traumatic memory theory suggests that intense, distressing experiences can cause memories to be stored differently in the brain compared to normal memories. These trauma-related memories may be fragmented, highly detailed, and associated with strong emotional sensations. Because they are processed differently, they can repeatedly intrude into consciousness, sometimes triggered by reminders, leading to symptoms like flashbacks or intrusive thoughts. This theory helps explain why trauma can have a lasting psychological impact and informs treatments that aim to process and integrate these memories more adaptively.