Effects of event-specific memory training on autobiographical memory retrieval and depressive symptoms in schizophrenic patients

Background and objectives: This report describes the effects of a specific event group-based training programme on autobiographical memory, self-consciousness of memory retrieval, and depression symptoms in a sample of 24 schizophrenic patients (experimental group). Methods: Twenty-six matched schizophrenic patients who participated in social skills and occupational therapy group sessions constituted the active control group. Participants in the experimental group were trained to complete a diary with specific daily memories, followed by patients' ratings of the associated emotional arousal of those entries. During training, significant specific events from childhood, adolescence, adulthood and the previous year were also reviewed. Results: After 10 weeks of group-based sessions, the experimental group demonstrated an increase in their degree of specificity for autobiographical retrievals, had a higher level of consciousness of their memories and showed a decrease in their depression scores. Significant changes in measurements of retrieval specificity and autonoetic awareness were maintained when changes in emotional symptomatology were statistically controlled. Limitations: The present study did not assess the impact of autobiographical memory training on the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Conclusions: These results suggest that cognitive training strategies based on event-specific autobiographical memory training should be considered for inclusion in intervention programs for schizophrenic patients. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.