In What is your story what does the term primitive autobiographical self refer to?

In "What Is Your Story?: A New Approach to Autobiography", the term "primitive autobiographical self" refers to the early stage in the development of a person's autobiographical memory, which typically occurs during the first three years of life. During this stage, the self is characterized by a limited sense of time, a focus on the present moment, and a lack of reflective awareness of one's own experiences. Instead, the self is primarily based on sensory and emotional experiences, as well as the interactions with primary caregivers. The term "primitive" in this context does not imply inferiority, but rather reflects the rudimentary and evolving nature of the autobiographical self during this early period of life.