chapter 3 Flashcards
What is the availability heuristic?
A mental shortcut where people judge the frequency or probability of events based on how easily examples come to mind.
Why do people overestimate the occurrence of tragedies?
Vivid events, such as violent crimes, get more media coverage and stick out in memory.
How does memory influence decision-making?
Memory retrieval plays a crucial role in reasoning and judgment, often leading to heuristic-based decisions.
What are the three main processes of memory?
Encoding, Storage, and Retrieval.
What is encoding?
The process of putting information into memory by creating a mental representation.
How does attention impact encoding?
More attention and effort lead to stronger memory traces.
What is memory storage?
The way information is stored in the brain through neural activation and connectivity.
What is a schema?
A mental representation that provides general information about how to think, behave, and what to expect in a situation.
What is a script?
An ordered knowledge structure used for explaining events or behaviors.
What is retrieval?
The process of accessing stored information in memory.
What causes memory errors during retrieval?
Errors can arise from encoding issues but only become apparent when retrieving information.
How is memory categorized?
Based on duration, content, encoding process, retrieval process, and effort required.
What are the three types of memory based on duration?
Sensory memory, Short-term memory (STM), Long-term memory (LTM).
What is working memory?
A system that temporarily holds and manipulates information for cognitive tasks.
Who proposed the working memory model?
Alan Baddeley (2003).
What are the components of working memory?
Phonological loop, Visuospatial sketchpad, Central executive.
What is subvocal rehearsal?
Repeating information internally to strengthen memory traces.
What are executive functions?
Domain-general cognitive processes like task-switching, selective attention, and inhibition.
How do executive functions relate to intelligence?
They are a key determinant of general intelligence and higher-order thinking.
What is declarative memory?
Memory that can be consciously recalled and described (e.g., facts, events).
What are the two types of declarative memory?
Semantic memory, Episodic memory.
What is nondeclarative memory?
Implicit memory that cannot be consciously declared, such as procedural skills.
What are examples of nondeclarative memory?
Procedural memory, Motor memory.
What is the difference between intentional and incidental learning?
Intentional learning: Consciously trying to remember information. Incidental learning: Learning without conscious effort.
