Explanations of forgetting - Retroactive and proactive interference

Question 1

What are the two types of interference?

Answer 1

Retroactive and proactive

Question 2

What is proactive interference?

Answer 2

When previous memories interfere with recent similar memories

Question 3

What is retroactive interference?

Answer 3

When recent memories interfere with previous similar memories

Question 4

Is there research to support interference?

Answer 4

Underwood 1957
Nonsense syllable word lists the students had previously learnt, the greater their forgetting of new nonsense syllables after 24 hours (proactive)

Question 5

What is a weakness into the research supporting interference?

Answer 5

Lab experiments artificial - nonsense syllables/word lists/ triograms is not how we use memory in real life. Lacks credibility.

Question 6

Is interference supported by our everyday experience?

Answer 6

Getting a new phone number - real world applications.
We mix up the cognitive connections.

Question 7

Can the interference theory be considered reductionist?

Answer 7

Other valid explanations such as forgetting due to an absence o clues. Therefore should not be used as only theory as it is incomplete.

Question 8

Does interference have good practical applications?

Answer 8

Can help prevent forgetting revision notes. Should not revise similar subjects in a short time scale.