Mood congruence
What is mood congruence?
Mood congruence refers to the tendency to recall information, thoughts and memories that correspond to the mood you are in. For example, when you are happy, you are more likely to recall positive memories or thoughts, while a negative mood may lead to the recall of gloomy or sad memories.
How does mood congruence work?
Mood congruence works because our emotional state affects what information becomes accessible in our memory. This means that the mood you are in determines which memories surface more easily.
An example of mood congruence
When you are in a happy mood, you may think back to fun vacations or funny moments with friends. In contrast, if you are feeling gloomy, you are more likely to remember situations in which you also felt sad. This can lead to further reinforcing the current mood, as you mostly recall memories that confirm that mood.
