Interference

Question 1

Define interference

Answer 1

When one memory disrupts your ability to recall another memory

Question 2

When is interference more likely to occur

Answer 2

It is more likely to happen when the memories are similar

Question 3

State the two types of interference

Answer 3

1. Retroactive interference
2. Proactive interference

Question 4

Define retroactive interference

Answer 4

Forgetting due to new memories disrupting your ability to recall old memories

Question 5

Define proactive interference

Answer 5

Forgetting due to old memories disrupting your ability to recall new memories

Question 6

Name and outline a scientific experiment which shows evidence for interference

Answer 6

McGeoch and McDonald (1931):
-three groups given word list A to learn, then had a 10 minute interval where they had to memorise a new list
1. Group 1- list of synonyms to words in list A
2. Group 2- list of nonsense syllables
3. Group 3- list of numbers
-participants then had to recall words in list A
-group 1 has worst recall (12%) compared to most effective recall in group 3 (37%)

Question 7

Name and outline a real-life study of interference

Answer 7

Baddeley and Hitch (1977);
-asked rugby players to remember names of teams they’d played in that season week by week
-not all players played in every match
-those players who had played the most matches forgot most opponent teams as the matches had interfered with their memory

Question 8

Which type of interference can be seen in the real-life study of interference

Answer 8

Retroactive interference

Question 9

State which type of interference is occurring when you learn how to drive on the left hand side of the road and when you go to Spain you drive on the left hand side instead of the right

Answer 9

Proactive interference

Question 10

State which type of interference is occurring when you learn German and then French and when you go to recall German you always recall the French

Answer 10

Retroactive interference