4.5 Memory - Explanations of Forgetting: Interference Flashcards
What is interference?
Forgetting because one memory blocks another causing one or both to be distorted or forgotten
What is Pro-Active Interference?
When old learning interrupts new learning for example when you call someone by the wrong name
What is Retro-Active Interference?
When new learning interferes with old learning for example you may remember learning memory better than learning approaches in psychology
What psychologists studied interference?
McGeoch and McDonald
What was McGeoch and McDonalds procedure?
Participants had to learn a list of 10 words until they could remember them with 100% accuracy. They then had to learn a new list. Six groups of participants were made and they had to learn different types of lists:
. Group 1 learned synonyms, words with the same meaning as the original list
. Group 2 learned antonyms, words with the opposite meaning
. Group 3 learned words unrelated to the original ones
. Group 4 learned nonsense syllables
. Group 5 learned three digit numbers
. Group 6 had no new list and just rested
What did McGeoch and McDonald find?
The more similar a memory, the more likely retrospective interference is to occur because there is more to get confused with because of similarity as we can see from the low recall of those in the group with words of the same meaning (Aprox 1) compared to none (Aprox 4)
Strengths of interference as an explanation of forgetting
. Lab setting
. 1000 + studies with supporting information
. Replicable
. Control of EVs
. Standardised procedures
. Baddeley and Hitch rugby supporting research conducted in everyday setting, so ecologically valid and reflective
Limitations of interference as an explanation of forgetting
. Lacks mundane realism
. Possible demand characteristics thus lower in internal validity
. Criticised as being ungeneralisable
