Explanations for Forgetting Flashcards
What are two explanations for forgetting?
1.Interference Theory
2.Retrieval Failure
Explain the Interference Theory.
Proactive Interference= Old interferes with new.
Retroactive Interference= new interferes with old.
Give strengths of the Interference Theory.
+Research support for retroactive interference from Baddeley and Hitch.
players who had played the most games had the poorest recall (more interference). Demonstrates effects in everyday life, meaning it has high ecological validity.
+Has important practical applications.
Students can plan their revision more effectively to avoid confusion and interference. Can be used to help us avoid forgetting and improve recall. Important in education.
Give a limitation of the Interference Theory.
-Some of the research evidence comes from artificial lab experiments.
The findings may not relate to everyday uses of memory. Therefore, it lacks ecological validity and can’t be generalised.
When does retrieval failure occur?
When people forget information due to insufficient cues to help them find it.
What are the two types of retrieval failure?
- Context-Dependent forgetting
- State-Dependent forgetting
What is context-dependent forgetting?
It is based on the situation around you (absence of external cues).
What is state-dependent forgetting?
Based on the state you are in (absence of internal cues).
What is a piece of research for context-dependent forgetting?
Godden and Baddeley (underwater words list).
What is a piece of research for state-dependent forgetting?
Goodwin et al (drunk/sober words list).
Give strengths of Retrieval failure.
+The strength of them being lab experiments means they are controlled and can control extraneous variables. The independent variable is the only things being manipulated, therefore can establish cause and effect.
+Supporting evidence from Carter and Cassaday.
Did a memory test with participants who were on antihistamine. This increases the validity of the research.
