Reconstructive Memory

Question 1

Define Reconstructive Memory

Answer 1

The idea that we alter information we have stored when we recall it

Question 2

Define confabulation

Answer 2

Filling in the gaps of memory

Question 3

How are false memories formed?

Answer 3

Memories are recalled and when they’re re-encoded into the LTM they’re altered

Question 4

Define schema

Answer 4

Categories of information within the brain

Question 5

What are the purpose of schemas?

Answer 5

To fill in the memory gaps (confabulation) and to interpret unfamiliar objects and events

Question 6

How did Bartlett test Reconstructive Memory (ink blots)?

Answer 6

Showed participants ink blots - they saw the blots as a picture relevant to their experience or interests

Question 7

Give supporting evidence of Reconstructive Memory

Answer 7

Bartlett - War of the Ghosts (perceptions changed over time)

Jennifer Thompson - Believed Ronald Cotton to be her rapist when it was Bobby Poole

Loftus- Changed the adjectives of describing the speed of a car. The more brutal the adjective, the faster the car went

Question 8

Give conflicting evidence of Reconstructive Memory

Answer 8

War of the Ghosts was not scientific at all - no scoring system etc.

Doesn’t consider the existence of the STM/LTM (reductionist)

Question 9

Is Reconstructive Memory useful?

Answer 9

Proved that eyewitness testimony is unreliable

Question 10

Is Reconstrtuctive Memory testsable?

Answer 10

Can’t directly test schemas

Bartlett and Baddeley did tests however