Final answer:
Flashbulb memory is a vivid and clear memory of an emotionally significant event, strengthened by arousal theory. It is a part of our episodic memory, encoding the detailed circumstances of impactful events.
Step-by-step explanation:
The form of memory retrieval that occurs when a person encounters a vivid image of an emotionally significant event is known as flashbulb memory. A flashbulb memory is a clear, detailed memory of an emotionally powerful moment or event. According to arousal theory, strong emotions are believed to trigger the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that strengthen the memory which explains why our memory for an emotional event is better than our memory for a non-emotional event.
Episodic memory being information about events we have personally experienced, plays a key role in flashbulb memories, encoding the 'what, where and when' of an impactful occurrence. An example that most people can relate to is the memory of where they were when they first heard about the 9/11 terrorist attacks, indicating the longevity and clarity of such memories.