L1 Introduction to Memory

Question 1

What are recovered memories ?

Answer 1

Reappearance in consciousness of memories for past events, that were not accessible
1. must know that the event was real
2. must know that you forgot it
3. recovery must be spontaneous

Question 2

What is false memory syndrome ?

Answer 2

Systematic creation of memories for events which never in fact happened
Putting vulnerable people under pressure can create false memories

Question 3

What did Roediger and McDermott 1995 find about memories ?

Answer 3

65% probability of recalling an item that was on the list
40% probability of recalling a critical item that was not on the list
Ps are just as likely to remember something that wasn’t on the list vs something that was on the list
Remember - vivid memory of the presentation of the item
Know - sure it is on the list but don’t remember the moment they heard the word

Question 4

What are the conclusions and implications of false memories ?

Answer 4

Simple lab experiments can rapidly produce high levels of false recall
Can be distinguished from events that actually happened
Memories can be a mixture of stories, fabrications etc.
Human memory doesn’t provide consistent record of the events that we have experienced