Individual differences and types of autobiographical memory

Abstract

One of actual problems in autobiographical memory study is the investigation of individual differences of memory system. In past quarter of a century extensive knowledge about autobiographical memory functions, structure and trends was accumulated however the results of differential psychological investigation of the matter are inconsistent or contradictory. The paper presents a functional-typological approach to the analysis of individual differences in autobiographical memory. The sample includes 213 subjects (68 men and 145 women) aged from 17 to 86 (mean age = 34,5, SD = 15,36, age distribution is normal). The leading function of autobiographical memory in life activity is distinguished as a system-forming characteristic of individual style of its work. The leading function is shown to determine the trend of development and the possibility of active transformation of structure characteristics of autobiographical memory. Gender and age peculiarities of autobiographical memory are identified. For example, memories colored with negative emotions are more common in women and peak thematic and functional development is observed in people aged 27–35. Four types of autobiographical memory are distinguished: communicative, regulative, pragmatic and existential. Each type reveals specific relationships with typological characteristics of nervous system and personality traits.