Abstract
This study investigates whether it is possible to suppress positive picture memory by intentionally within the think/no-think paradigm (Anderson & Green, 2001). The employed method consisted of three phases: (1) learning, (2) think/no-think, and (3) final test. During the learning phase, participants (N=34) learned cue (neutral word)-target (positive or neutral picture) pairs. They were then given a cue-recognition test until their performance levels exceeded 80 percent. In the think/no-think phase, only the cues were repeatedly presented (either 0, 6 or 12 times). Pairs in the zero repetition condition were taken as a baseline in evaluating memory facilitation and memory suppression. With respect to red cues, participants were required to remember the paired targets, while for green cues they were to suppress the paired targets. During the final test phase, the participants were tested with a cue-recall test. The results indicate that the participants recalled fewer suppressed targets than the baseline targets for both positive and neutral pictures. This suggests that memory suppression of pictures is robust and that subjective experience during suppression varies according to emotional valence.
