Beyond Episodic Memory: An Empirical Characterization of Declarative Memory Phenomenology

Abstract

Memory phenomenology is an important topic in theoretical development of memory constructs. However, most work in this area begins with the assumption that episodic memory phenomenology neatly partitions into established feature categories. Using an exploratory approach, this study examined how features combine to produce latent factors of declarative memory and how these factors characterize declarative memories. I administered a novel questionnaire sampling a broad range of memory-related constructs evoked by various probes, and, using two samples (n1 = 421, n2 = 271), allowed qualitative variation to organize memory experiences into data-driven factors. Hierarchical dimensions of episodic and semantic qualia were uncovered, confirming that episodic and semantic memory processes are distinguishable by experience. Consistent with Tulving’s definition, I observed, for the first time empirically, that higher-order factors comprised partially independent modules that varied from memory to memory, including two imagery modules distinguished by the presence of movement. As expected, qualia expression diverged based on both probe type (childhood event versus childhood summary) and memory age (recent event versus childhood event). However, continued positive expression of canonical episodic qualia in the semantic condition raises questions about long-standing theoretical boundaries between episodic and semantic memory, such as the idea that mental time travel and autonoesis distinguish episodic recall. Further to these discoveries, which validate and extend our understanding of episodic and semantic memory, this research underscores the need for a systematic, empirically grounded map of declarative memory phenomenology, while also introducing a novel instrument capable of delivering it.