The Role of Conversations in Shaping Individual and Collective Memory, Attitudes and Behavior

Abstract

Memory often serves as the foundation or impetus for our opinions and actions. This holds at both the individual and group levels. On the individual level, Pillemer and colleagues have documented, in a series of book chapters and papers, the directive function of autobiographical memory (for a review, see Pillemer 2003). Pillemer gives the example of a woman who, at her parents’ high school reunion, was initially too shy to speak to the other guests. At her parents’ prodding and encouragement, however, she eventually did interact with a number of other people, and subsequently enjoyed herself. Since then, upon finding herself in other social situations involving unfamiliar people, she draws upon this memory as a reminder that she need not be intimidated, and to encourage herself to approach others.