Question

Which statement is MOST accurate about the level of detail remembered about past events?

a) Individuals tend to remember emotional events with higher detail.
b) Individuals recall all events with equal precision.
c) Older adults remember recent events better than younger individuals.
d) Memories of past events become more vivid with age.

Answer 1

The most accurate statement about the level of detail in remembered past events is that individuals remember emotional events with higher detail, supported by the arousal theory and evidenced by flashbulb memories.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering which statement is MOST accurate about the level of detail remembered about past events, research in psychology indicates that individuals tend to remember emotional events with higher detail. This is explained by the arousal theory, which suggests that strong emotions trigger the formation of strong memories, and weaker emotional experiences form weaker memories. Additionally, emotional events often lead to the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that strengthen memory. An example of this is the flashbulb memory phenomenon, where people have exceptionally clear recollections of important or emotional events.