Module #23 - Forgetting and Memory Construction Flashcards
Forgetting as (3 failures)
- Encoding failure
- Storage failure
- Retrieval failure
Encoding failure
People fail to encode information bc it is perceived as unimportant, it is not necessary to know the info, a decrease in the brain’s ability to encode.
Permastore Memories
Long term memories that are especially resistant to forgetting and are likely to last a lifetime.
Interference
A retrieval problem in which one memory gets in the way of remembering another.
Two types of interference
- Proactive
2. Retroactive
Proactive interference
When an older memory disrupts the recall of a newer memory.
Retroactive interference
When a more recent memory disrupts the recall of an older memory.
Repression
Process of moving anxiety-producing memories to the unconscious. Part of Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, supposed means of protecting from painful memories, not well support by research (stressful incidents are more likely to be encoded)
Memory jigsaw analogy
Memories are formed as bits and pieces, not like a video tape. People may retrieve only some of the pieces of the memory.
Elizabeth Loftus (1944 - )
First to demo in a lab the tendency to construct memories. Found that subjects’ memories vary based on the wording of questions (misinformation effect).
Misinformation effect
Incorporating misleading information into a memory of an event. Affects eyewitness testimony.
Tip of the tongue phenomenon
Failing to retrieve a word from memory, combined with partial recall and the feeling that retrieval is imminent, or about to happen.
2 explanations for TOT
- Direct Access View: memory strength is not enough to recall an item, but is strong enough to trigger the state.
- Inferential View: arise when the rememberer tries to piece together different clues about the word.
Children’s testimony on abuse
Unreliable, children very open to suggestions. Must use accurate interviewing methods.
