Reducing unwanted trauma memories by imaginal exposure or autobiographical memory elaboration: An analogue study of memory processes

► We investigated cognitive mechanisms of interventions that reduce reexperiencing after trauma. ► Neutral objects shown in traumatic picture stories were later preferentially identified and evaluated negatively. ► Memory elaboration balanced perceptual priming for objects from traumatic and neutral stories. ► Imaginal exposure and autobiographical memory elaboration led to more balanced emotional evaluations. ► Interventions may prevent selective perceptual or emotional responses to trauma reminders.