Working memory capacity can be improved by expressive writing: A randomized experiment in a Japanese sample

Authors: Yogo, Masao1; Fujihara, Shuji2

Source: British Journal of Health Psychology, Volume 13, Number 1, February 2008 , pp. 77-80(4)

Publisher: British Psychological Society

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Abstract:

This study examined the influence of expressive writing on working memory capacity (WMC), a component of executive function. Japanese undergraduates (N=104) were individually tested across six separate experimental sessions (baseline, three writing, and two follow-up sessions at 1 and 5 weeks). Participants were randomly assigned to write about a traumatic experience, their best possible future selves (BPS), or a trivial topic for 20 minutes. WMC tests were completed at baseline and follow-ups. Results indicate that expressive writing about traumatic experience can improve WMC at 5 weeks after writing, but that writing about BPS or trivial topics has no effect on WMC.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1348/135910707X252440

Affiliations: 1: Department of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan 2: Center for Studies of Emotions, Stress, and Health, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan

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