The phenomenon of having clear "memories" of events or experiences that didn't actually happen is known as false memories. False memories can be quite vivid and detailed, and they may feel as real as genuine memories. There are several reasons why people may have false memories of events such as possibly flying as a child:
Imagination and Fantasy: Children have active imaginations and engage in pretend play and fantasy scenarios. These imaginative experiences can sometimes become intertwined with real memories, leading to confusion between what was imagined and what actually occurred.
Suggestion: Sometimes, well-meaning adults or even peers might suggest certain events or experiences to a child. For example, if someone mentions the idea of flying or going on an airplane, a child may construct a false memory based on that suggestion.
Dreams: Dreams can be very vivid, and elements of dreams may be incorporated into memories, especially in young children who have difficulty differentiating between dream experiences and waking reality.
Media and Stories: Children are exposed to various forms of media, such as books, movies, cartoons, etc. They may incorporate elements from these stories into their memories, leading to the creation of false memories.
Merging Memories: Sometimes, memories of similar events or experiences may merge in the mind, leading to the creation of a false memory that includes elements from multiple real memories.
Memory Reconstruction: Memories are not perfect recordings of events but are reconstructed each time we recall them. During this process, details may be altered or combined with other memories, leading to potential inaccuracies.
It's important to note that false memories are not uncommon, and they do not necessarily indicate a psychological problem. They can occur in both children and adults. The brain's memory system is complex and sometimes prone to errors, and false memories can be unintentionally created.
If you have specific concerns about your memories or experiences, discussing them with a mental health professional can be helpful. They can provide further insights and help differentiate between genuine memories and false ones. However, occasional false memories, especially from childhood, are generally considered a normal part of human memory functioning.