Memory: Forgetting and Remembering Flashcards
Retrieval Failure
Inability to consciously recall information stored in the long-term store due to the absence of retrieval cues that could trigger memory retrieval.
Retrieval cues
Mental reminders or prompts that we create to assist our recollection later on
May create them deliberately, implicitly or both
Can be context-dependent (environmental) or state-dependent (internal e.g. emotions)
Tip-of-the-tongue Phenomenon
Knowing you are aware of the name, item or material you are trying to remember but cannot retrieve it in the moment
Shows that we intentionally search for retrieval cues
Interference
When information in the long-term store cannot be retrieved due to it being disrupted by similar information
e.g. two PIN numbers for bank accounts
Proactive Interference
Previously stored (older) information interferes with retrieval of new learning
PRO = Formal
Retroactive Interference
New learning interferes with retrieval of previously stored information
RETRO = Backwards
Motivated Forgetting
Intentional or unintentional suppression of memories or thoughts from conscious awareness to minimise emotional distress
Psychological Repression
Involuntary and subconscious process of forgetting to reduce anxiety
Thought Suppression
Deliberate and conscious effort to push thoughts and memories out of conscious awareness
Decay Theory
The fading away of memory over time
Information transferred from SR to STM or STM to LTM creates a memory trace that erodes over time
Rehearsal counteracts decay
Recall
Retrieval of info from LTM without any prompts or cues (short answer questions)
Free Recall
Retrieval of as much info as possible about a specific topic in any order
Serial Recall
Retrieval of info in a set order
Cued Recall
Provided retrieval cues help with the retrieval of memory
Recognition
Retrieval of the correct info from a list of alternatives
