Confabulate meaning

Confabulate means to fabricate imaginary experiences in order to fill in gaps in memory.


Confabulate definitions

Word backwards etalubafnoc
Part of speech The word "confabulate" is a verb.
Syllabic division Con-fab-u-late.
Plural The plural of the word "confabulate" is "confabulates."
Total letters 11
Vogais (4) o,a,u,e
Consonants (6) c,n,f,b,l,t

Confabulate is a term used in psychology to describe the process of creating false memories or information without the intention to deceive. This phenomenon can occur in individuals who have experienced brain injuries, dementia, or other cognitive impairments.

Definition of Confabulate

Confabulation involves the production of fabricated, distorted, or misinterpreted memories that can seem very real to the individual experiencing them. These memories are not intentionally created to deceive others but are instead a result of the brain's attempts to fill in gaps or inconsistencies in one's memory.

Causes of Confabulation

Confabulation can occur due to various factors, including damage to the brain's frontal lobes, which are responsible for executive functions such as decision-making and problem-solving. Additionally, certain psychiatric conditions, substance abuse, and neurological disorders can also contribute to confabulatory behavior.

Types of Confabulation

There are two main types of confabulation: provoked and spontaneous. Provoked confabulation occurs in response to questioning or external cues, while spontaneous confabulation occurs without any apparent external trigger. Both types can be challenging to differentiate from genuine memories.

Effects of Confabulation

Confabulation can have significant effects on an individual's daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. It can lead to misunderstandings, confusion, and false beliefs that may impact decision-making and social interactions.

Treatment for Confabulation

Treatment for confabulation typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the behavior, such as cognitive rehabilitation, medication management, or therapy. Strategies such as reality orientation, memory aids, and cognitive behavioral therapy may also be helpful in managing confabulatory tendencies.

In conclusion, confabulation is a complex phenomenon that can have profound implications for individuals experiencing it. By understanding the causes, types, and effects of confabulation, healthcare professionals can better support those affected and implement appropriate interventions to improve their quality of life.


Confabulate Examples

  1. The patient began to confabulate memories that never actually occurred.
  2. Some people confabulate stories to make themselves look better in front of others.
  3. During the police interrogation, the suspect started to confabulate a false alibi.
  4. The witness seemed to confabulate details of the crime scene under pressure.
  5. He tends to confabulate when under stress, mixing up reality with fiction.
  6. In psychology, confabulation is a memory disturbance characterized by fictional memories.
  7. The politician's tendency to confabulate facts hurt his credibility with voters.
  8. Children often confabulate elaborate tales when playing make-believe.
  9. Susan confabulated a plausible excuse for being late to the meeting.
  10. The jury saw through the defendant's attempt to confabulate evidence to support his innocence.


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  • Updated 21/06/2024 - 08:47:50