Children’s and adults’ memory for emotional pictures: Examining age-related patterns using the Developmental Affective Photo System

Two studies were conducted to examine theoretical questions about children’s and adults’ memory for emotional visual stimuli. In Study 1, 7- to 9-year-olds and adults (N = 172) participated in the initial creation of the Developmental Affective Photo System (DAPS). Ratings of emotional valence, arousal, and complexity were obtained. In Study 2, DAPS pictures were presented to 20 8- to 12-year-olds and 30 adults, followed by a recognition memory test. Children and adults recognized aversive images better than neutral images. Moreover, children and adults recognized high and moderate arousal images more accurately than low arousal images. Adults’ memory for neutral images exceeded that of children, but there were no developmental differences in memory for aversive pictures. Theoretical and methodological implications are discussed.

► Two studies were conducted to establish the Developmental Affective Photo System (DAPS).
► Aversive, positive, and neutral images were rated for valence and arousal by children and adults.
► A recognition memory test provided an initial validation of DAPS.
► Aversive and high/moderate images were recognized better than neutral and low arousal images.
► Adults’ memory exceeded children’s memory for neutral but not for aversive pictures.