Abstract:
ABSTRACT
MASS MEDIA EFFECTS ON FLASHBULB MEMORIES:
VIVID MEMORIES OF SEPTEMBER 11TH
by
Stephanie Elise Bor
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
Mass Communication
California State University, Chico
Spring 2010
The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of television images and
commentary on vivid memory recall for the September 11th terrorist attacks that occurred
in 2001. This research used the theory of flashbulb memories to explain why people possess
vivid and long lasting memories pertaining to the exact moment they learned about a
surprising and/or consequential event. The theory was first used to explain the clarity in
which people could recall the moment they learned about the death of President John F.
Kennedy in 1963. Individuals claimed to remember precise details including their exact
location, ongoing activity, the person or medium that informed them, their personal reaction,
and other specifics pertaining to the moment they learned of the assassination. The
present research discovered that the flashbulb memory theory could also be used to explain
vivid memories associated with the September 11th terrorist attacks.
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When examining this disaster it was also evident that the formation of memories
were heavily influenced by exposure to content featured on television. In reference to initial
content viewed, images and commentary appeared to improve respondents’ understanding
of the attacks and cause them to become more emotionally distressed. Exposure
to television content also increased realism and assisted viewers in comprehending the
magnitude of the crisis. Viewing subsequent news coverage since 2001 has also assisted
to reinforce, modify, or maintain vivid memories of September 11th. According to the results,
exposure to television news has continued to increase distress for viewers by causing
them to become more angry, fearful, sad, and suspicious. Television has also increased
contempt with the American government over time.
