Emotional intensity of autobiographical memories: Effects of sex and rehearsal

Abstract

Investigations of sex effects on qualities of recollective experiences have yielded controversial results. While some studies stress differences in emotional intensity and amount of overt rehearsal (reminiscence), others found no significant differences. This study inquired sex effects on emotional intensity of autobiographical memories. Were analyzed 66 Brazilian undergraduates’ mean ratings (paired by sex and age) on 16 scales of the Autobiographical Memory Questionnaire (AMQ) across various types of autobiographical events, momentous ones being the most frequent. Women outscored men in all but one scale (unusual event). Visual imagery and overt rehearsal showed significant differences. Results concur with a pattern of small, non-significant sex differences in rating characteristics of AMs. An integrative view of phenomenal qualities and elements of verbal reminiscence is supported. Keywords: Autobiographical memory; sex; phenomenology; emotion; reminiscence.