Computer Game Play Reduces Intrusive Memories of Experimental Trauma via Reconsolidation-Update Mechanisms

Memory of a traumatic event becomes consolidated within hours. Intrusive memories can then flash back repeatedly
into the mind’s eye and cause distress. We investigated whether reconsolidation—the process during which memories
become malleable when recalled—can be blocked using a cognitive task and whether such an approach can reduce
these unbidden intrusions. We predicted that reconsolidation of a reactivated visual memory of experimental trauma
could be disrupted by engaging in a visuospatial task that would compete for visual working memory resources. We
showed that intrusive memories were virtually abolished by playing the computer game Tetris following a memoryreactivation
task 24 hr after initial exposure to experimental trauma. Furthermore, both memory reactivation and
playing Tetris were required to reduce subsequent intrusions (Experiment 2), consistent with reconsolidation-update
mechanisms. A simple, noninvasive cognitive-task procedure administered after emotional memory has already
consolidated (i.e., > 24 hours after exposure to experimental trauma) may prevent the recurrence of intrusive memories
of those emotional events.