However, new research using non-retrospective recall studies have found evidence for FAB,[1] and the phenomenon has become largely accepted.
[5] Growing evidence has also acknowledged the tendency for originally negative events to shift over time and be viewed in a more positive way.
[8] It also plays an important role in positive personal event memory trends essential to the Pollyanna Principle.
[1] The first opposing idea is based on the "bad is stronger than good" theory, and is therefore more salient, in terms of affective fading.
This view contrary to fading affect bias argues that due to the nature of the self, we are more inclined to focus on and remember negative events.
[10] This theory focuses on the belief that human nature is based around negative experiences, memories, and emotions.
[1] Therefore, none of this views represent solid arguments against FAB and the growing body of evidence seems to solidify its existence.
[5] Criticism of the Cason (1932) study centered around the fact that retrospective and introspective procedures could be subject to memory biases.
[11] A study by Walker et al. (1997) discussed the role which memory plays in FAB using diary recording to analyze cognitive processes.
Here, it is stated that human beings are preferential in what they select to remember and that certain particulars of events fade, but not emotions.
Ritchie et al. (2009) used subject's personal responses to 1200 autobiographical events to study the Fading Affect Bias.
[12] This is a possible implication of why FAB exists: the human need to catalog relevant information to be used in the future.
[13] A study by Bohn & Berntsen (2007) used the falling of the Berlin Wall to observe how the FAB affects flashbulb memories.
Studies have looked at this in relation to those with trait anxiety who are stuck in a state of anticipating a threat whether real or perceived.
[1] As found in multiple studies, the disproportionate amount of negative memories of a dysphoric individual can be attributed to the interruption of the FAB.
[5] For example, a person is only looking back at a negative event with a positive lens because they are currently in a good mood.
A popular explanation for the FAB among psychologists and researchers alike, is the need for healthy self-awareness, self-regulation and positive self view.
[5][19] Effectively regulating negative emotions in autobiographical memories reduces maladaptive future behavior and allows for the enhancing of the self.
[1] This is further supported by evidence which shows that individuals with depression, a maladaptive disorder, experience interference with FAB by retaining negative emotions from unpleasant memories.
[19] Overall, the fading affect bias is seen as an adaptive behavior in healthy individuals that allows for a more positive outlook on life[1] Much of the research for FAB has been done almost exclusively in the US.
Culture effectively standardizes the customs and rituals that formalize the human relationships according to the core groups' value system.