Reminiscence: Exploring the Origins, Processes, and Consequences

Empirical investigation of reminiscence as a naturally occurring process and as a therapeutic nursing intervention has been hampered by the lack of a theoretical framework that can integrate diverse viewpoints and account for existing data. This article presents a preliminary model of reminiscence that can guide future research efforts and assist clinicians in understanding the functions of the reminiscence process. The model proposes that reminiscence is a source of self-referent knowledge, which influences a person's self-worth. It views reminiscence as a process of acquiring personal existential meaning and as a mechanism for adapting to stress.