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Current Alzheimer Research

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ISSN (Print): 1567-2050
ISSN (Online): 1875-5828

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Research Article

Self-defining Memories and their Contribution to the Sense of Self in Alzheimer’s Disease

Author(s): Mohamad EL Haj* and Philippe Allain

Volume 17, Issue 6, 2020

Page: [508 - 516] Pages: 9

DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666200807184942

Price: $65

Abstract

Aims: Unlike autobiographical memory (i.e., memory for personal information) in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), little is known about Self-Defining Memories (SDM) (i.e., memories of highly significant personal events) in AD.

Methods: The characteristics of self-defining memories in AD were evaluated by analyzing their specificity, emotional valence, and integration, as well as their centrality and contribution to self-continuity. Results demonstrated fewer specific SDM in AD participants than in controls.

Results: No significant differences were observed between AD participants and controls regarding the production of positive or integrated SDM. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed between AD participants and controls regarding the rating of the centrality of SDM and their contribution to self-continuity. These results demonstrate that, although AD participants produce fewer specific SDM than controls, both populations have similar levels of emotional valence, integration, centrality, and selfcontinuity of these memories.

Conclusion: It is concluded that patients with AD, at least those in the mild stages of the disease, can build on significant personal events and experiences (i.e., SDM) to reflect on how these events have changed the way they see themselves.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease, autobiographical memory, memory, self, self-continuity, self-defining memories.

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