Abstract
Autobiographical memory and narrative research across the lifespan needs to be integrated for the optimal impact of practical applications and interventions. Real-life stories include those from the personal past and future and other peoples' past and futures. Fictional stories include those from books, Television/movies, video games, and plays. Parallels exist in the way these stories of past, future, and fictional events develop from childhood to old age, individual and cultural differences, benefits and pitfalls, and the role of stories in psychopathology. Differences exist in the impact of stories as a function of media delivery systems, especially real-life stories via social media and fictional stories via visual media. Individuals may vary in which stories produce optimal benefits with the least harm. Future research needs to focus on moderators of the benefits and dangers of stories as a function of an individual's characteristics, gender, culture, and current situation.