Answer to Question #96711 in Psychology for daria w

Question

Years ago, neuroscientists discovered that forming a memory causes physical changes in the brain in which new synaptic connections grow between the neurons. Each time we recall a memory it gets modified when we save it. Based on this research, it was, recently, reported that psychologists have found a way to erase the emotional anxiety associated with bad memories without erasing the memories themselves. It is done by using a drug called Propanolol which changes the way a memory is saved after being accessed. Can you think of some ways in which this research can be applied? Do you think it is a good thing or a bad thing?

Answer 1

The treatment cold be used to help patients suffering from chronic anxiety due to traumatic events such rape and war. It could also be used by individuals to erase unwanted emotions that result from breakups, failure etc.

I think the treatment is a bad thing. When used on a patient, it deprives them of their ability to cope with undesirable emotions. Besides, therapy can be used to help one to deal with the emotions. Coping with negative emotions helps one build their mental strength. The treatment could also make patients addicted to it because they would lack the willpower to deal with their emotions. Therefore, the treatment should only be used in severe cases.