quiz 2

Question 1

Schema theory

Answer 1

Schema theory is the theory that our knowledge is organized and categorized which influences our cognition and behavior. The schema affects our ability to comprehend new information. The schema helps us make sense of things and make generalizations about things.

Question 2

Reconstructive memory theory

Answer 2

Reconstructive memory is the theory that when memories are accessed, they’re not retrieved as a whole memory, but as independent memories put together. The reconstructive memory theory claims that we alter our stored memories based on our prior knowledge/personal beliefs.

Question 3

Loftus and Palmer study

Answer 3

The aim was to investigate whether the use of leading questions would affect estimation of speed. Participants were shown a traffic accident, then were asked to estimate the speed of the crash shown. The word “hit” in the critical question was altered for similar words based on the group. Results showed that the estimates of speed was highest when using the word “smashed” and lowest when using the word “contacted”. This study can be linked to the reconstructive memory theory.

Question 4

Flashbulb memory

Answer 4

Flashbulb memories are highly detailed memories where surprising or personally relevant news was received. Flashbulb memories are easily forgotten and usually less accurate.

Question 5

Brown & Kulik study

Answer 5

The aim was to investigate whether surprising and personally significant events could cause flashbulb memory. Participants were given a questionnaire regarding the deaths of public figures (including MLK) and people they personally knew. Results showed that 90% of participants recalled a significant amount of detail about the day the events occurred. Additionally, 75% of black participants had flashbulb memories about death of MLK compared to 33% of white participants.