Traumatic memories are often fragmented – a psychologist explains how and why that happens

When a person’s story about a traumatic event seems fuzzy, they may be experiencing the nuances of how their brain processes trauma.

By: Michele Patterson Ford, Dickinson College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 19, 2026

Words: 1,296

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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By Michele Patterson Ford, Dickinson College

When survivors of trauma recount their experiences, they are often questioned because of how they relay their stories. They may have problems remembering what happened, or their memories may be jumbled or even contradictory. People hearing those stories – attorneys, reporters, healthcare workers or friends – may expect a clearer, linear narrative.

Those unaffected by trauma may also be surprised to hear how the person acted in the moment. It’s …

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