Researchers have discovered a potential new technique to weaken the recall of negative memories by reactivating newer, positive memories during sleep. The method, known as targeted memory reactivation, successfully diminished the intensity of negative memories while increasing the involuntary recall of positive memories.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences detailed this process. Thirty-seven college-aged participants formed associations between random spoken words and emotionally negative images, which were then used to create “interfering” positive memories during a second learning session. The researchers then played the audio cues linked to both the positive and negative memories while the participants slept.
The study found that the targeted reactivation process weakened participants’ ability to recall the associated negative memories. Additionally, it increased the frequency of involuntary positive memory intrusions and led to a more positive emotional bias toward the reactivated cues. Brain activity during sleep also revealed increased theta-band activity in response to positive memories, indicating that the technique preferentially targeted newer associations.
While the results are promising, further research is needed to address limitations such as the artificial creation of emotions and potential variations in brain activity across different sleep phases. The long-term effects of this technique and its clinical applications must also be explored. However, the study’s findings offer hope for innovative treatments for trauma and emotional distress through the harnessing of sleep-based memory editing techniques.
Source: https://www.psypost.org/scientists-demonstrate-a-novel-sleep-based-technique-to-weaken-negative-memories