Memory Distortion
Memory distortion refers to the phenomenon where a person's recollection of an event becomes inaccurate or altered over time. This can occur due to various factors, such as the influence of new information, suggestions from others, or the natural process of forgetting. As memories are recalled, they can be reshaped, leading to the creation of false memories or the alteration of existing ones.
Several psychological studies, including those by Elizabeth Loftus, have demonstrated how easily memories can be distorted. For instance, when individuals are exposed to misleading information after an event, their memories can change, resulting in a different perception of what actually occurred. This highlights the malleable nature of human memory.