Whether positive or negative, these events are imprinted into neural networks that bias our mind to interpret related new experiences within the context of the SIE. A self-perpetuating cycle ensues that takes place outside conscious awareness. We may remember the initial triggering event but only understand its influence much later, if at all.

Rousell suggests that we are often emotionally primed for these life-changing events, which may be nothing more than a simple off-hand remark or activity that certainly wasn't intended to profoundly affect our life. A comment made on one occasion without effect could become a SIE in another. The critical factor for an SIE to occur is the recipient's receptivity and intense emotional arousal. We frequently replay a SIE interaction in our mind as we connect it to subsequent events. That's not surprising, since SIEs can lead to vocational, bonding, and many other important choices.

It's thus important to understand the SIE concept and neurobiology because the phenomenon helps us to understand the events that shape our life, and the impact we can have on the lives of others. The susceptibility that can activate a SIE is also operative in hypnosis.