title: The self-reference effect on memory in early childhood.
abstract: The self-reference effect in memory is the advantage for information encoded about self, relative to other people. The early development of this effect was explored here using a concrete encoding paradigm. Trials comprised presentation of a self- or other-image paired with a concrete object. In Study 1, 4- to 6-year-old children (N = 53) were asked in each trial whether the child pictured would like the object. Recognition memory showed an advantage for self-paired objects. Study 2 (N = 55) replicated this finding in source memory. In Study 3 (N = 56), participants simply indicated object location. Again, recognition and source memory showed an advantage for self-paired items. These findings are discussed with reference to mechanisms that ensure information of potential self-relevance is reliably encoded.
authors.affiliation: University of Abertay Dundee; University of Aberdeen.
authors.forename: Sheila J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Cunningham
authors.forename: Joanne L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Brebner
authors.forename: Francis
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Quinn
authors.forename: David J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Turk
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D002648:Child; D002657:Child Development / Q000502:physiology; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010775:Photic Stimulation; D021641:Recognition, Psychology / Q000502:physiology*; D012649:Self Concept