Abstract:

Based on the perspective of multiple memory systems, the dual representation theory (DRT) of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) underlines the functions of ventral and dorsal streams of visual processing on both of the formation and retrieval of the intrusive imagery. The DRT proposes that two types of competitive cognitive tasks (i.e., verbal and visual-spatial tasks) can influence traumatic information processing and traumatic memory reconsolidation by taxing the cognitive resources of ventral and dorsal streams respectively. Alternatively, the working memory model (WMM) argues that the effect of competitive cognitive tasks is a result of taxing the cognitive resources as a whole. Both of the DRT and WMM have received some empirical support. Future studies should consider individual differences in working memory capacity. Especially, it would be helpful to conduct more intervention studies, and effort should be made to improve research methods and design new competitive cognitive tasks that are more compatible with culture and closer to real life. Besides, studies with clinical applications and simulation intervention studies should be conducted increasingly; intervention studies in real traumatic situations should be carried out appropriately; more studies that are related to training relevant capacities of information processing should be conducted as well.

Key words: posttraumatic stress disorder, the dual representation theory, working memory model, competitive cognitive task