Profiling Reminiscers: Using a Self-Report Measure of Frequency and Functions of Reminiscence to Identify Individual Patterns of Retrieval

Reminiscence, a specific form of autobiographical memory that aids in the development of a sense of self, serves several functions. The current study extends the literature on reminiscence (between-group differences in reminiscence functions) by examining the heterogeneity of reminiscence to identify patterns of reminiscence using person-centered statistics. The study utilized data collected by Webster and colleagues comprised of 907 participants ranging in age from 17 to 88 years. Latent profile analysis and finite mixture modeling were used to discern distinct profiles of the Reminiscence Functions Scale’s eight functions of reminiscence, age, and gender. A three-class solution fit the data best, indicating that three distinct profiles of reminiscing were present in the data. The Young-Adult Self-Negative reminiscing profile was characterized by the highest scores on the Bitterness Revival and Boredom Reduction factors. The Middle-Adult Self-Positive reminiscing profile had the lowest mean scores on all reminiscing factors among the three profiles, but was relatively high on Identity, Problem-Solving, Teach/Inform, and Conversation factors. The Older-Adult Self-Positive Pro-Social reminiscing profile was characterized by the highest scores on Death Preparation, Identity, Problem-Solving, Teach/Inform, and Conversation factors. This study contributes to our understanding of reminiscence by identifying distinct patterns of reminiscence functions and age and offering further support for the three higher-order factor structure of reminiscing.