The repressed and implicit knowledge

Abstract

The distinction between implicit (non-conscious) and explicit (conscious) knowledge made by cognitive scientists is applied to the psychoanalytic idea of repressed contents. The consequences of repression are suggested to have been caused by implicit representations. Repressed memories can also be treated in terms of explicit representations, which are prevented from becoming activated. Implicit knowledge cannot, however, be made conscious, and thus the idea of becoming conscious of the repressed desires and fears that have never been conscious is contradictory. This tension may be relieved by reconceptualising the idea of becoming conscious of the repressed. It is suggested that this could be seen as creating explicit knowledge about the effects of implicit representations. By applying the implicit/explicit knowledge distinction, psychoanalytic ideas concerning the repressed could be connected to current views in the domain of cognitive orientation.

The archive and psychoanalysis: Memories and histories toward futures

“…However, it is not yet clearly known how this happens in the neural network (increasing the probability of firing and priming). It may also be that the implicit representations have to be somehow transcribed (Stern et al ., 1998), translated or transformed (Talvitie & Ihanus, 2002) into explicit representations in order to enhance change. Explicit knowledge is derived from interpretation, whereas implicit knowledge is born in relations and interactions (Stern et al ., 1998).…”

Linking mind, body and language: free association revisited

“…Reconstructions would improve explicit memory. Freud also repeatedly expressed the thought that the unconscious could become conscious (Talvitie & Ihanus, 2002). Nowadays, psychic work and interpretations rather tend to focus on the psychic material which is produced by implicit memory and is only partly explicit.…”

“…When discussing repressed memory and implicit knowledge, Talvitie & Ihanus (2002) point out that a first aim of psychoanalytic cure is to create more explicit representations; a second one is to activate these representations and the implicit representations at the same time. The same event may be simultaneously coded by implicit and explicit memory/knowledge systems.…”

“…The same event may be simultaneously coded by implicit and explicit memory/knowledge systems. They may also influence each other (Talvitie & Ihanus, 2002). The implicit knowledge cannot be made conscious, but the output of the implicit-knowledge system can be observed, and explicit knowledge about it can be acquired.…”

“…Thanks to this, implicit experiences can get form and contents from feelings and sensations that had earlier been unconscious and beyond reach. We can say that during the talking cure, explicit knowledge is developed out of the effects and functioning of the implicit knowledge system (Talvitie & Ihanus, 2002). This is brought about by formulating notions about the output of the implicit knowledge system and connecting distinct events and ideas by free association.…”