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Positivity BiasPositivity Bias/Sydney TrappThe brain is a complex organ that directs a plethora of cognitive functions, specifically, how does the brain regulate memories of unfavorable experiences? Biologically, the brain stories memories in the hippocampus and amygdala. Numerous studies on the roles of the hippocampus and amygdala are apparent in the maintenance of long term memories( pp. 122). The mind can inhibit memories from processing at any stage. Thus, by controlling any phase of consciousness, one can avoid remembering troublesome experiences by restricting coding (pp. 268). The restriction on coding serves as a defense mechanism to protect the mental state of an individual. The explanation of this defense mechanism stems from individuals' level of a positivity bias in anything they retain superior to the long term memory (pp. 266). In other words, individuals rely more on their perceived well-being and happiness over experiences they've in the past. The expression of people's satisfaction and prosperity derives from the experience of memories. If the brian intentionally disrupts how the memories get encoded, stored, and recalled, people can have a more peaceful version of their lives. Positivity bias is instrumental for both young and older adults, people with disabilities, and people with a low socioeconomic standpoint. This type of bias supports an emotionally regulated way of thinking. Yang and Ornstein (2011) took a closer look at how retrieval and emotion play a role in memories. They discovered that emotion-focused familiarization at intended recovery strengthens young adults' positivity bias and consequently clears out their superior negativity bias (pp. 312). The bias increases over a lifetime because a shift in thought processing occurs. As one age, their goals, desires, and conflicts change. For example, when an individual attains all or most practical goals they wished to complete, they can start focusing on one more emotional-based goal. They have time to think about pursuing a life partner, starting a family, or getting married. Emotion-based goals are just as potent on an individual's motivation and well-being. Mather and Knight (2005) noted that the differences between older and younger adults are their goals, which regulate concentration and memory by enlisting cognitive control mechanisms, such as motivated forgetting (pp. 565).