Research shows that memories related to personal experiences improve when posted on social media. What is the extent of this impact, and how do we monitor it?

Over the last decade, both access to and exposure to media have increased dramatically, specifically regarding the amount and variety of sources. A less commonly discussed impact is the media’s effect on human memory and how this affects how we recall history.

When it comes to our working memory, it is also possible that we display a selection bias, which means we are most likely to post about our most memorable experiences. If people tend to post about their positive experiences, they are more likely to remember those experiences. Conversely, if they tend to post about their negative experiences, then those negative experiences take a stronger hold on their memory and identity.

So does that mean that social media improves our working memory, or will it impact our ability to retrieve that memory later?

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All-text: Couple taking a selfie

Social Media’s Impact on The Content of Memories

Media modifies not only what we remember but how we remember it. For instance, if you introduce false or misleading information about an event, your memory may remember exclusively this version of it. This is why headlines that use strong floridity are widely broadcast in public, leading to memory misinterpretation of events.

Moreover, the familiarity factor affects how people remember the source from where they got their information. For example, when you see the same news over several social media platforms for several days, you are more likely to remember it. This impacts the type and durability of the memories we retrieve, our conception of events, and our subconscious selection of memories.

Social Media’s Impact on Memory Storage

Social media affects both how well we recall events, and also impacts how we store them. With this widespread informational access, our internal memories of events are no longer necessary, as we can simply find them online. It is, therefore, easier to recall where and how to locate information about an event, rather than the event itself.

Studies show that engaging in social media while attending an event, or any other externalization of an experience reduces memory of the event. We tend to rely on external sources, such as Facebook and Instagram to remember significant events, placing great responsibility upon us to become accurate recorders of events.

How can you monitor your memory in the presence of social media:

• Relate new information to things you already know

When you are introduced to unfamiliar things, dwell on how this information relates to things that you already know. Implementing relationships between new ideas and already existing memories can drastically increase the possibility of remembering things when needed.

• Develop routines

Use brain exercises to train your memory. For example, write down six random words, then try to remember the first two words without peeking at the paper, then increase the words gradually. Also, create a routine that aids your retrieval of information, like minimizing social media consumption, reading more, and practicing mindfulness. 

• Meditate

Meditation not only helps reduce your anxiety but also increases your working memory speed and performance. A study conducted that after just 8 days of meditation training, your working memory will improve significantly compared to others. This is due to meditations’ impact on strengthening your ability to remain focused on a single thought while ignoring other distracting thoughts.

• Sleep well

You can recall past events more easily when you sleep well, as it helps you to consolidate your memories. Make sleep a priority and aim to sleep for seven to nine hours every night. Make sure to give your body and brain the amount of rest they need.