Chapter 1: The Basics of Memory

Memory is often humorously referred to as "a girl's memory," suggesting that memory issues are prevalent among women. However, such disorders are also common in the elderly. This raises questions about age and memory capabilities. L.S. Vygotsky's work highlights the interplay between memory formation and cognitive development, noting that memory is among the highest functions of the human mind.

His research indicates that the foundations of memory begin to develop in the first six months of life, with motor and affective types emerging early on. By the age of two, children begin to cultivate figurative memory as they explore their surroundings, touching and examining objects while also learning their names. Logical memory starts to form around ages three to four, where children begin to understand relationships between objects and events. This period also sees the development of both short-term and long-term memory.

Typically, a child's earliest self-recollections occur between the ages of three and four, as figurative memory has been sufficiently established to allow for the recall of visual, auditory, olfactory, and tactile experiences.

At ages four to five, voluntary memory emerges, marked by children actively memorizing songs and rhymes, alongside learning specific sequences of actions during play (for instance, role-playing games like "mother-daughter" aid in understanding familial relationship models).

From ages two to six, speech memory also develops. Children not only learn to comprehend spoken language but also begin to express it themselves. Therefore, experts advise against introducing foreign languages until ages six to seven, emphasizing the need to first solidify the mechanisms of speech memory in their native language.

Interestingly, some studies suggest that even fetuses possess a form of emotional memory. Although this is underdeveloped in infants, it significantly matures around ages five to seven. Special activities can assist children in recognizing their feelings and those of others, laying the groundwork for emotional intelligence, which is vital for social interactions later in life.

As individuals transition into adolescence, their memory systems continue to evolve and strengthen. People often develop a dominant type of memory linked to their perceptual strengths—some may favor visual memory, while others may lean towards auditory or kinesthetic memory.

Research suggests that memory may start to decline around the age of 20, but this varies widely among individuals. Active engagement in learning and personal growth can help maintain and even enhance memory capabilities. Continued cognitive challenges foster the formation of new neural connections while preserving existing ones.

Remember: In the human body, the first functions to diminish are those that are seldom utilized!

Section 1.1: The Role of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional memory plays a crucial role in how we navigate relationships and social settings. This section delves into how early emotional experiences shape our understanding of ourselves and others, laying the groundwork for emotional intelligence.

Subsection 1.1.1: Visualizing Memory Development

Chapter 2: Memory in Adulthood

The first video titled "The Girl With The 3 Minute Memory: Living Life On Her Own Terms" provides insight into the unique experiences of individuals with memory challenges, shedding light on their coping mechanisms and life stories.

The second video, "Vivian Girls - Memory [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]," creatively illustrates themes related to memory, nostalgia, and emotional recollection, enhancing our understanding of how memory impacts our daily lives.