Flashbulb memories result from ordinary memory processes and extraordinary event characteristics

Brown and Kulik (1977) observed a phenomenon that had captured the public’s attention-seemingly indelible memory for important, emotional events. They dubbed it “flashbulb memory” (FBM) and conducted the first modern empirical study on the topic (for an earlier study, see Colegrove, 1899). The concept was equally effective in capturing the attention of memory researchers, and in the 30 years following that seminal publication the topic has been investigated almost as often as the events that lead to such memories allow. During this time, the description of the phenomenon has undergone an interesting and important transformation.