memory Flashcards
What are the two general types of memory?
Explicit (declarative) memory and implicit (procedural) memory
Explicit memory is consciously aware, while implicit memory is unconsciously expressed.
Define explicit memory.
Consciously aware of memory, can say, write, or demonstrate it
Involves intentional memory formation (encoding).
Define implicit memory.
Unconsciously express memory, often formed through exposure to information
Can be intentionally formed early on.
What are the two forms of explicit memory?
Recall and recognition
Recall involves retrieving and expressing information, while recognition involves identifying information.
What is the primary effect in memory recall?
The tendency to remember early list items better
This is part of the serial position effect.
What is the recency effect in memory recall?
The tendency to remember later list items better
Also part of the serial position effect.
What are the three general memory mechanisms?
- Encoding
- Storage
- Retrieval
These mechanisms describe how memories are formed, retained, and accessed.
What is encoding in memory?
Convert experiences into mental representations
Essential for memory formation.
What is storage in memory?
Retain mental representations over time
Involves maintaining information for future use.
What is retrieval in memory?
Accessing mental representations for use
Critical for recalling stored information.
What is the difference between shallow and deep processing?
- Shallow: Based on surface characteristics
- Deep: Meaningful connections to existing knowledge
Deeper processing leads to better memory retention.
What is chunking in memory?
Creating meaningful larger units of information
Helps improve memory retention by organizing information.
What is the method of loci?
A mnemonic technique that involves visualizing items in specific locations
Also known as the memory palace technique.
What are the three stages of memory systems?
- Sensory memory
- Short term memory (STM)
- Long term memory (LTM)
Each stage has different characteristics and functions.
What is sensory memory?
Momentarily preserves accurate images of sensory information
Information is lost if not transferred quickly to STM.
What is the capacity of short term memory?
Typically limited to 7+/-2 pieces of information
Retains information for 15-30 seconds.
What is working memory?
Processes or manipulates information in STM
Involves comprehension, interpretation, and problem-solving.
What are the components of Baddeley’s working memory model?
- Central executive
- Visuospatial sketchpad
- Phonological loop
- Episodic buffer
Each component serves a different function in memory processing.
What is long-term potentiation (LTP)?
A long-lasting increase in the strength of synaptic responsiveness
Important for long-term memory formation.
What is retrograde amnesia?
Inability to recall or recognize past memories
Often associated with memory loss due to trauma or injury.
What is anterograde amnesia?
Inability to form new memories
Commonly seen in cases like patient H.M.
What are Schacter’s seven sins of memory?
- Transience
- Absent-mindedness
- Blocking
- Misattribution
- Suggestibility
- Bias
- Persistence
These represent various errors and distortions in memory.
What is the decay theory of forgetting?
Information fades away if not accessed or used
Relates to the breakdown of neuronal connections.
What is interference theory of forgetting?
Similar information interferes with the retrieval of memories
Includes proactive and retroactive interference.
