Explanations for Forgetting: Interference Flashcards
Outline the interference theory:
The interference theory states forgetting takes place because of interference. This occurs when two pieces of information conflict with each other, resulting in the forgetting of one or both, or in some distortion of memory
What does interference between memories occur?
Interference between memories makes it harder for us to locate them, which is experienced as ‘forgetting’
What is forgetting?
Forgetting is when we cannot gain access to memories even though they are available
There are types of interference, what are the two different types of interference?
There is proactive interference and retroactive interference
What is proactive interference?
Proactive interference occurs when an older memory interferes with a newer one.
What is retroactive interference?
Retroactive interference happens when a newer memory interferes with an older one
When is interference worse, as discovered by McDonald and McGeoch?
Interference is worse when the memories or learning are similar
What study did McGeoch and McDonald conduct to determine interference is worse when learning similar things?
McDonald and McGeoch studied retroactive interference by changing the amount of similarity between two sets of materials. Participants had to learn a list of 10 words until they could remember them with 100% accuracy. They then learned a new list. There were six groups of participants who to learn different types of lists
What findings did McDonald and McGeoch conduct?
When the participants then recalled the original list of words, their performance depended on the nature of the second list. The most similar material produced the worst recall. This shows that interference is strongest when the memories are similar.
What is a strength of the interference theory? (lab experiments provide strength)
Interference in memory has had multiple lab experiments carried out into explaining forgetting. Most of these studies have shown that both types of interference are very likely to be common ways we forget information from long term memory. This is acts as a strength since lab experiments control the effects of extraneous variables and therefore give us confidence that interference is an internally valid explanation for some forgetting.
What is a limitation of the interference theory? (lack ecological validity)
The study conducted did not represent everyday memories, the words on the list were random words which lacked meaningfulness. Therefore there is a lack of ecological validity and there will be a limit in how generalisable the theory will be to the wider population
What is a strength of the interference theory? (inexperienced/experienced rugby players)
Baddeley conducted an investigation between experienced and new rugby players. It was found amongst the experienced rugby players there was more difficult to recall past matches, for various reasons, including injuries. Baddeley and Hitch found that recall for the last game was equally good no matter the timeline. This demonstrates that incorrect recall was it due to the passing of time but related the number of intervening games. This demonstrates that retroactive interference is a reason for forgetting in everyday life.
