explanations for forgetting - interference

Question 1

interference theory

Answer 1

• some forgetting takes place due to interference
• when 2 pieces of info disrupt each other, results in forgetting or distortion of memory
• makes it harder for us to locate memories in LTM

Question 2

what is proactive interference?

Answer 2

when an older memory interferes with a newer one

Question 3

what is retroactive interference?

Answer 3

when a newer memory interferes with an older one

Question 4

research support (McGeoh and McDonald)

Answer 4

procedure - studied retroactive interference by changing amount of similarity between 2 sets of materials, pps learnt a list of words until 100% accuracy in recall
findings - most similar material (synonyms) produced worst recall, interference is strongest when memories are similar

Question 5

real world interference (Baddeley, Hitch and rugby players)

Answer 5

• got players to recall names of teams they had played against in one season
• players who played the most games (most interference) had poorest recall
• this increases validity of interference theory
• IV- how many matches the players had played in
• DV- how many team names the players could recall
• the probability of recall was not dependent on the passing of time, but on the number of intervening games
• retroactive interference

Question 6

evaluation of interference theory

Answer 6

• done in a lab setting, low ecological validity, we don’t know how forgetting and interference would happen in everyday life
• tasks carried out aren’t very realistic
• artificial stimulus material is used (word lists), limited time between learning and recall, low mundane realism