Fading affect bias

Fading affect bias (FAB) is a cognitive bias whereby the emotional intensity associated with negative memories diminishes more rapidly than the emotional intensity of positive memories. This phenomenon suggests that over time, people are more likely to remember the past in a more positive light, allowing them to maintain a more favorable self-image and psychological well-being.

How it works

Fading affect bias operates through a natural emotional regulation process. Positive memories retain their emotional vibrancy longer than negative ones, possibly due to adaptive functions that preserve well-being and promote social cohesion. Over time, the details of both positive and negative events may be forgotten, but the affective tone of positive events lingers longer, contributing to a rosier view of past experiences.

Examples

Consider a person who spent a challenging but ultimately rewarding summer working in difficult conditions. Years later, they may strongly recall the camaraderie and sense of accomplishment while the hardships fade away significantly. Similarly, after a minor argument with a friend, the hurt feelings dissipate faster while the friendship remains intact.

Consequences

While fading affect bias can be beneficial for mental health, enhancing resilience and optimism, it may skew our perception of history and past decisions. Overly positive recollections of past events can lead to unrealistic expectations in similar future situations or failure to learn from past mistakes.

Counteracting

Being aware of this bias can help individuals seek a more balanced view of their experiences. Practices like journaling both positive and negative events and revisiting them periodically can provide context and remind individuals of the objective aspects of past experiences. Cognitive-behavioral strategies can also be employed to ensure comprehensive lessons from both positive and negative past events are not disregarded.

Critiques

Some critiques of fading affect bias highlight how it may lead to Pollyanna nostalgia, where individuals become disconnected from the realities of their past, potentially repeating similar negative experiences. Moreover, the generalization inherent in FAB might neglect important details necessary for learning and personal growth.

Fields of Impact

Also known as

Relevant Research

• The fading affect bias: Its history, its implications, and its future

  John A. B. et al. (2020)

  Journal of Research in Personality

• Chapter 9: Memory and Affect

  Lisa L. et al. (2018)