Memory theory and memory therapy

The present chapter began life as a paper presented at a work­ shop on memory retraining. The workshop sprang from dis­ cussions between research workers primarily concerned with the theoretical understanding of human memory, and practi­ cal clinicians concerned with the task of helping particular patients cope with their memory problems. Given such origins, it seemed sensible to begin with a consideration of current theories of memory, and then go on to discuss their application in practice - and I agreed to give the theoretical introduction. I did so, presenting an overview of current approaches to human memory. Having given it, I had very mixed feelings. On the one hand I felt I had made a reasonably competent attempt at the difficult job of surveying the vast amount of research that has gone on in the area of human memory over the last decade. I believe this to be an intrinsically interesting area, and one which is at least of background relevance to anyone working with patients suffering from memory problems. On the other hand, I felt that I had completely fudged the issue of how and why such theoretical research is relevant to the therapist trying to help an individual patient. The task I avoided was a difficult one, not least because I knew so little of the characteristics of the audience I was addressing, or of the practical problems of memory therapy. Even with the benefit of hindsight, writing about the relationship between theory and practice in an area as new and diverse as this presents substantial problems. I do however believe that it is extremely important to maintain strong and healthy links between theory and practice. What follows attempts to explain why.