Retrieval-induced forgetting of dysfunctional interpretations due to repeated retrieval of functional interpretations

Abstract

Literature has suggested that belief updating and emotion regulation can be achieved through memory control such as retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF). In cognitive (behavioral) therapy, therapists often ask patients to generate functional interpretations which counter with dysfunctional negative interpretations for events, leading to a decrease in negative emotions. In this condition, there were competing functional and dysfunctional interpretations of the event as a cue, and we posited that the findings of RIF effects on beliefs and memories could be adopted. Experiment 1, participants recalled 8 negative autobiographical events and identified dysfunctional interpretations for these events, and then generated 4 functional interpretations for all events followed by retrieval practice of functional interpretations for a half of events. In Experiment 2, participants generated only one functional interpretation per event. We did not find any retrieval practice-specific effects on recall of interpretations, beliefs, and emotions.