An Overview Of Encoding Memory: Is It Dangerous?

Human memory is fascinating. Without memory, it would be impossible for people to function and carry out their day-to-day activities. However, memories go through various processes, especially as they are stored and processed in the brain. The encoding of memory occurs when the perceived item of use or interest is converted into a construct that can be stored within the brain and recalled later from short-term or long-term memory. Encoding is one of the most basic memory-related abilities. Various recollections are encoded into the mind every day, regardless of whether people are consciously or subconsciously aware of it.

Memory encoding explained

Moreover, emotion plays a considerable role in the encoding process. This is why most people tend to form stronger memories of events and circumstances that carry significant meaning, for better or worse. The emotional factor in memory encoding is also why it is more difficult for human beings to recall matters of little to no importance in their minds. In some ways, this ties back to sensory perception.

To understand memory encoding, it's important to note the various parts of the brain and their subsequent roles in the process. First and foremost comes the hippocampus; this element of the brain examines memories during the encoding process and then decides whether or not they should be sorted into short-term or long-term memories. The hippocampus is essential and plays a significant role in the functionality of human memory; if this part of the brain were to be harmed, forming new memories would become an impossibility. Clinically, the inability to form new memories is known as anterograde amnesia.

Types of memory encoding

There are four different categories of memory encoding: visual, acoustic, elaborative, and semantic. Each of these categories plays a critical role in the encoding of memory. Although most people don't realize it, they visually, acoustically, elaboratively, and semantically encode memories daily.

Visual encoding

When the brain visually encodes memories, it processes various images and information that pertain to the visual senses. The amygdala plays an integral role in visual encoding; first, these memories are placed in the iconic memory (a very brief type of sensory memory that rapidly fades) and then stored in the long-term memory. Recalling phone numbers on a contact list, colors associated with various brands, or where certain rooms are located in your home are all examples of successful, visually encoded memories.

Acoustic encoding

As the name suggests, acoustic-encoded memories are recollections connected to the hearing and auditory senses. Repetition (also referred to as phonological loop) is paramount for these types of memories to be encoded within the human brain successfully. The necessity of the phonological loop is why most people tend to remember the lyrics to their favorite songs. Listening to anything repeatedly, whether it's a speech, song, or phrase, increases the likelihood of the brain encoding the sound like a long-term memory.

Elaborative encoding

Next comes elaborative encoding, which connects already processed memories to newer information and then determines commonalities between the two. Believe it or not, successful elaborative encoding strengthens the retention of long-term remembrances. This version of encoding is largely why people tend to recall situations or events that maintain links to strong emotions, regardless of whether said emotions are positive or negative.

Semantic encoding

Semantic encoding largely relies upon the organization of information segments and strategies used to enhance recollection abilities. As previously noted, repetition or ongoing exposure is one of the most effective techniques that enhances people's ability to remember various bits of information. Some examples of semantically encoded memories include recalling a house based on its color, remembering various stores by their chosen colors, and associating certain colors with one's favorite foods.

Memories that are encoded by visual, acoustic, elaborative, and semantic means each play a role in the quality of the human memory. In fact, encoding is the very first step of memory retention. Without the ability to encode memories, nobody would be able to recall various life events, feelings, or individuals. Each version of memory encoding plays a role in processing and transferring various recollections to the part of the brain that stores long-term remembrances.

Is memory encoding dangerous?

In and of itself, memory encoding is not dangerous. Without the ability to encode memories, humans' ability to function would be virtually impossible. 

However, when the process of encoding memories is damaged or otherwise compromised, this can be very dangerous, depending upon the severity of harm. In some ways, memory encoding is like saving documents to a computer file. On the surface, this sounds fairly simple, but, in actuality, it's not. As document files should be complete and saved in the right folder, the same principle applies when memories are encoded.

Previous studies and discoveries from specialists have determined that not all memories are accurate. As a matter of fact, human memories are highly vulnerable to distortion. The presentation of new information, the power of suggestion, and many other factors can impact memories that have already been encoded. This vulnerability increases considerably over time. Granted, this doesn't mean that every single long-term memory is altered or inaccurate, but it simply means that long-term memories can be changed under the proper circumstances.

While the process of encoding memories is not inherently dangerous, manipulating this process can be particularly damaging. Intentionally implanting false memories is a form of encoding manipulation and can have dire effects. The human brain automatically processes information it receives regardless of whether it is true or false. If the coercion is intense enough, false recollections can override previously encoded and stored information. This type of manipulation is dangerous; it can cause people to regard friends as enemies, forget critical memories, and otherwise engage in questionable conduct that is out of character for them.

A final word

The preceding advice is particularly applicable to older people. The quality of the body and mind tends to decline with age. Therefore, healthy and nutritious lifestyle habits and environments become even more imperative for elders. Reading, painting, drawing, exercise, word puzzles, strong social networks, and moderate to low consumption of alcohol are effective ways for older individuals to maintain robust mental health and preserve the "youth" of their brains.

Connecting with other people (hence the previously mentioned strong social networks) plays a considerable role in the quality of one's mental health. This can be especially critical when life is stressful, uncertain, or otherwise difficult. The truth is that good times and bad times are inevitable regardless of how healthy someone is. Still, maintaining one's physical and mental well-being can be vital to living a productive, healthy life. 

Online counseling with BetterHelp

In many cases, sitting down with a counselor can be particularly beneficial if you're experiencing problems with your memory or have other concerns. At BetterHelp, an online counseling platform, you can connect with a therapist from the comfort of your home. As a unique individual, you may want to connect through phone calls, video chats, or in-app messaging—all of which are options with BetterHelp. Online counseling allows you to personalize your therapeutic experience to improve your quality of life and help you grow. 

Research has shown that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for treating common conditions like anxiety and depression. One study found that online reminiscence therapy helped people with dementia decrease depression and increase engagement, indicating online therapy could have a role in memory-related therapy.