Back to the future: self-defining memory recall amplifies effects of episodic future thinking on delay discounting

Episodic future thinking (EFT), which involves constructing imagined future events utilizing content from memory, decreases delay discounting (DD). DD is related to numerous health and behavior problems. In two studies we examined the use of salient episodic memories to enhance EFT effects. In Study 1, 106 participants were randomized to groups that generated self-defining memories (SDM) or played a memory game to activate memory before EFT, and a control group that generated SDM followed by episodic recent thinking (ERT). Study 2 systematically replicated methods of Study 1 in a sample of 133 high discounters and added a group that generated memories in response to neutral words before EFT. Participants rated phenomenological qualities of episodic cues, as well as whether they activated identity. In both studies, the SDM-EFT group outperformed other groups. This research extends findings on the use of EFT, demonstrating how memories may enhance prospection and decision-making.