Autobiographical Memory Functions of Tattoo Event Memories

Autobiographical memories are known to possess two features: they are tied to memory objects such as photos, diaries, or music, and they serve three main functions: the self, social, and directive function. The self-function uses memories for the sense of self-continuity, the social function uses memories for social bonds, and the directive function uses memories for future guidance. Although autobiographical memories are known to serve these functions and to be allied with memory objects, research has yet to merge these two features. Therefore, this study investigated the memory functions of tattoo event memories, designating memories of life events that motivated tattooing and are hence perpetuated in the form of permanent embodied memory objects, the tattoos. We analyzed the tattoo event narratives of 20 adults for autobiographical memory functions. Results indicate that tattoo event memories serve the three memory functions to a similar extent as autobiographical memories in the previous research. Overall, our study suggests a broader view on autobiographical memory functions by linking them to memory objects.