A flashbulb memory is a vivid, long-lasting memory about a surprising or shocking event.
Exceptionally clear memories of emotionally significant events are called flashbulb memories. They’re called so because they are typically very vivid and detailed, much like a photograph, and often pertain to surprising, consequential, and emotionally arousing events. Flashbulb Memories (FM) are autobiographical memories associated with receiving unexpected news of high emotional impact.
Experiences of unpleasant occasions, such as an automobile accident, a mugging, or learning about the death of a loved one, are remembered better than those experiences of a routine day.
The adrenal stress hormones (cortisol), epinephrine (also called adrenaline) and corticosterone (corticosterone is the primary hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex in response to environmental challenges. It plays a crucial role in metabolism, stress, and adaptation) released by emotional arousal regulate the consolidation of long-term memory. The amygdala plays a critical role in mediating these stress hormone influences. The release of norepinephrine in the amygdala (contributing to the mechanisms of emotional memory, as exemplified by memory for fear) and the activation of noradrenergic (which aggravates the stress) receptors are essential for stress hormone-induced memory enhancement.