APS

2026 APS Annual Convention

Innovative Approaches to Modulating the Vividness and Emotionality of Negative Autobiographical Memories

Saturday, May 30, 2026 · Barcelona, Spain

Oral · Thinking & Remembering: Attention, Memory & Control

This symposium presents empirical research on cognitive and sensory mechanisms that alter negative autobiographical memories. Using experimental manipulations of working-memory load, bilateral stimulation, and attentional focus, the studies employ behavioral ratings and controlled interventions to clarify how these tools reduce emotional intensity, informing the development of more targeted therapeutic interventions.

Chairs & Discussants

  • Arnaud ReyChair
    CRPN UMR7077, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université
  • Iris EngelhardCoChair
    Utrecht University
  • Alex Lau-ZhuDiscussant
    University of Oxford

Presentations

  1. Can Anchoring Instructions Boost the Effectiveness of a Dual-Task Intervention for Emotional Memories?Gaëtan Mertens
  2. Beyond Fear: Testing Dual-Task Effects on Fear and Non-Fear MemoriesKevin van Schie
  3. The Role of Vibratory Bilateral Stimulation In Emotional ModulationCassandre Armand
  4. How Desired Internal Sensations Shape Emotional Memory: Insights from the Mosaic TherapyAlexandra Dia