explanations for forgetting

Question 1

what is Interference

Answer 1

one memory disturbs the ability to recall another
this might result in forgetting or distorting one or the other or both
this is more likely to happen if the memories are similar

Question 2

what is proactive interference

Answer 2

occurs when you cannot learn a new task because of an old task that had been learnt
when what we already know interferes with what we are currently learning
- old memories disrupt new memories
(pro=forward)

Question 3

what is retroactive interference

Answer 3

occurs when you forget a previously learnt task due to the learning of a new task
later learning interferes with earlier learning
- new memories disrupt old memories
(retro=backward)