Memory Studies- Bartlett's Theory Flashcards
What is Bartletts theory?
Bartletts theory of reconstructive memory proposed that memories are not stored as an exact form as in a computer. Instead, our memories are notes about what we experience, like jotting down a brief outline on a notepad. This means that memories are not exact copies of an event but an interpretation- an active reconstruction. Bartlett referred to this general knowledge as schemas.
How schemas influence our memory
Using various pictures and stories, Bartlett tested how schemas influence memory. He found that, over time, people recalled the pictures and stories differently because they were influenced by their schemas. Schemas influence our memory and cause us to ignore or change details when we recall them
Terms used for schemas influencing memory
Ommisions- We leave out unfamiliar, irrelevant or unpleasant details when remembering something
Transformations- Details are changed to make them more familiar and rational
Familiarisation- We change unfamiliar details to align our own schema
Rationalisation- We add details into our recall to give a reason for something that may not have originally fitted with a schema
Cognitive interview- A police interview designed to ensure that a witness doesnt actively reconstruct their memory
Strengths of Bartletts theory
A strength is that it has real world practical applications so we can understand why an eye witness, for example, can misremember certain events. To avoid this police now use an interview technique called the cognitive interview.
Another strength is that his study was ecologically valid as he asked participants to remember hours, days, months or years later which is a realistic use of memory
Weaknesses of Bartletts theory
One weakness of his theory is that he analysed and interpreted the data himself and his interpretation may differ from someone elses interpretation. This means his findings are subjective and unscientific
Another weakness is that he didnt use standardised procedures
