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Dec. 11, 2009
Erasing Fear Memories
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| Researchers report a non-invasive, drug-free technique to erase a bad memory in the human brain. Writing this week in the journal Nature, the researchers describe using a behavioral modification technique to remove a simple fear memory in people. The key appears to lie in when the technique is applied. Reactivating a memory, the team found, appears to open a "reconsolidation window," a time-limited period during which the memory can be changed. We'll talk with one of the team members about the finding, and how it may aid victims of trauma. |
Produced by Flora Lichtman, Correspondent and Managing Editor, Video
Guests
-
Elizabeth Phelps
Professor,
Department of Psychology
New York University
New York, New York
FEATURED READING
Brilliant Blunders
by Mario Livio
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