Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) A Practice Exam

Which of the following statements about trauma and memory is accurate?

1. Trauma completely erases memories

2. Trauma affects memory accuracy and organization

3. Trauma enhances memory recall

4. Trauma has no effect on memory

The correct answer is: Trauma affects memory accuracy and organization

The statement that trauma affects memory accuracy and organization is accurate because trauma can significantly impact the way memories are formed, stored, and retrieved. Traumatic experiences may lead to fragmented or disorganized memories due to the overwhelming nature of the event. Individuals often find that their memories may not be as clear or precise as they would be for non-traumatic experiences, as the emotional intensity can interfere with the cognitive processes involved in memory. Research shows that people who have experienced trauma may recall certain vivid details of the event while other aspects may be distorted or omitted. The brain’s response to trauma can involve alterations in the functioning of specific regions responsible for memory, such as the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in the formation and retrieval of memories. As a result, the relationship between trauma and memory is complex, leading to issues with both the accuracy of memories and their overall organization. This understanding is important for professionals working with trauma survivors, as it underscores the need to approach their accounts of events with sensitivity and an understanding that their memories may not serve as complete or reliable records of what happened.