Experiencing difficulty remembering arguments or specific details right after engaging in an argument is a relatively common phenomenon, and it doesn't necessarily indicate that there is something wrong with you. There are several reasons why this might happen:
Emotional overload: During arguments, emotions can run high, and the brain may become overwhelmed by the intensity of the feelings involved. In such cases, the brain's ability to encode and store memories may be temporarily compromised.
Stress response: Engaging in an argument triggers the body's stress response, which can impact memory formation. When stressed, the body releases hormones like cortisol, which can interfere with memory consolidation.
Fight or flight response: During an argument, the body can enter "fight or flight" mode, prioritizing immediate responses over memory storage. This can lead to difficulties in retaining specific details of the argument.
Selective attention: In the heat of an argument, your brain may focus primarily on the emotions and the desire to make your point. This can lead to less attention being given to the specifics of the discussion, making it harder to recall them afterward.
Memory bias: Memory is not always a perfect record of events. It can be influenced by biases and emotions. After an argument, your brain might focus on the emotional impact of the experience rather than the specific details.
Short-term memory: Arguments can be mentally demanding, and short-term memory might not have had enough time to consolidate the details before they start to fade away.
These memory lapses after arguments are generally temporary and should not be a cause for concern. However, if you find that you are experiencing significant and persistent memory problems in various aspects of your life, it might be worth discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional. They can assess your overall cognitive health and provide appropriate guidance if needed. Otherwise, implementing stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and good sleep habits can help improve memory and cognitive function.