Scientists have discovered why songs from your youth stay in your memory forever

This conclusion was reached by an international team of researchers led by the University of Jyväskylä (Finland). The results were published in the journal Memory, and almost 2000 people from 84 countries took part in the survey.

Scientists found a pronounced phenomenon called "peak memories" - emotional attachment to music reaches a maximum at about 17 years of age. It is the compositions of this period most often remain really important and cause strong emotions even after many years.

According to the author of the study, neuromusicologist Iballa Burunat, in adolescence the brain is particularly receptive. It is going through a rapid stage of development, personality and value system are being formed. Therefore, music associated with the first strong emotions, friendship, love and the experience of growing up, "imprinted" especially deeply.

Researchers have noticed a curious difference: in men the peak of musical memories comes at about 16 years of age, in women - about 19. Researchers suggest that men form musical identity earlier - often through adolescent independence and the desire to rebel. Women, on the other hand, connect music more strongly to relationships and emotional events, and the process stretches over a longer period.

The study showed that for men, the compositions of their youth remain key for the rest of their lives - like an "anchor" of memories. For women, however, musical preferences change and update more often, especially after the age of 45, reflecting new life stages and experiences.

Scientists have also described the phenomenon of "cascading peak of memories": young people are often emotionally attached to music released 20-30 years before their birth. This is due to the influence of parents, family traditions and cultural symbols - from classic rock to 80s hits.

"Music acts like a scent: it instantly transports us to the past, bypassing logical thinking, and brings back not only emotions but entire episodes of life," Burunat notes.