Nature of Remembering

Question 1

Nature of remembering

Answer 1

-we do not remember something exactly the way it happened (memory gets distorted)
-memory is a reconstruction: piecing together some highlights (may not be accurate) as we put in what we think to fill in any gaps

Question 2

Schemas

Answer 2

-we build schemas through experience
-frameworks of knowledge and assumptions about people, objects, events.
-we try to make info “fit” our schemas
-brain is like a filing cabinet, we are more cognitively efficient, we know what to expect

Question 3

Distortion of memory

Answer 3

• we alter the memory of an event so that it fits our beliefs, expectations, prejudices, logic. (list of words about sleep make you think that sleep is one of the words)
  -makes world more understandable

Question 4

Flashbulb memory

Answer 4

-memories in emotionally charges times, paired with hormone release, & involvment of amygdala set memories
- triggered by something , ex: war PTSD set off by fireworks
-vivid but accurate

Question 5

Distortion: eye-witness testimony

Answer 5

-questioning: cannot have leading questions
-misinformation effect: misleading info told to you after the event can cause wrongful recollection

Question 6

Repressed memories

Answer 6

-you have no idea something happened to you
-memories, typically of abuse, surfacing after therapy or reading books
-truly traumatic experiences cannot be repressed
-Surper rare