Autobiographical Remembering: Creating Personal Culture

Abstract

A model of autobiographical remembering and the creation of personal culture is proposed. In this model we hypothesize that autobiographical memories are instantiations- -objectifications as in metaphors or idioms--constituted through reconstructive processes that come to be recognized as self. Such memories are subsequently subjectified as personal culture. Our emphasis is on the functions and uses of autobiographical remembering, especially in interaction with others, where reconstructed memories are marked with affective significance. We propose that memories become autobiographical as a function of how they are used--to establish and maintain intimacies or to calm ourselves during times of hightened anxiety--and signified by affect and emotion. From an object- relations theory perspective, autobiographical memories are seen as transitional phenomena (selfobjects) that reconstitue caregiving relationships both when we are alone and when we are interacting with others.