The Reliability of Cognition Flashcards
What is reconstructive memory?
Reconstructive memory suggests that memory is not a passive and accurate retrieval of information, but rather an active process in which memories are reconstructed or altered by various factors, such as leading questions or post-event information. It highlights how memories can be distorted or inaccurately recalled due to external influences.
How does the misinformation effect relate to reconstructive memory?
The misinformation effect occurs when new, often misleading, information is introduced after an event, which can distort or alter the memory of that event. This supports reconstructive memory, showing how memory can be reshaped by external factors, leading to inaccuracies in recall.
How does reconstructive memory differ from flashbulb memory (FBM)?
While reconstructive memory emphasises the malleability and inaccuracy of everyday memories, FBM suggests that some memories, particularly those tied to emotionally significant events, are vivid, detailed, and accurate over time.
What was the aim of Loftus and Palmer’s study on reconstructive memory?
Loftus and Palmer aimed to investigate whether the wording of questions could influence a person’s memory of an event, specifically focusing on how leading questions could distort memory.
How did Loftus and Palmer test reconstructive memory?
Participants watched a video of a car accident and were then asked a leading question about the speed of the cars, with different verbs used (e.g., “smashed,” “hit,” “collided”). The key manipulation was the verb choice to see if it affected participants’ memory of the event.
What were the findings of Loftus and Palmer’s study on reconstructive memory?
Participants who were asked with the word “smashed” estimated the cars were traveling faster than those who were asked using more neutral words like “hit.” Additionally, those who heard “smashed” were more likely to report seeing broken glass, even though it wasn’t present. This supports the idea that memory can be influenced and reconstructed by external factors, such as misleading questions.
What does Loftus and Palmer’s study support in terms of memory?
The study supports the theory of reconstructive memory, showing that memories can be altered or distorted by external influences, such as the wording of questions, which can affect the way individuals recall past events.
What are cognitive biases?
Cognitive biases are systematic errors in thinking that affect decision-making and judgment. These biases arise from mental shortcuts, known as heuristics, which simplify complex information processing but can lead to flawed or irrational conclusions.
What is the halo effect?
The halo effect is a cognitive bias where an overall positive impression of a person (e.g., their attractiveness or likability) influences how we perceive other traits about them, such as intelligence or character, often leading to overly positive judgments in unrelated areas.
What was the aim of Dion’s study on the halo effect?
Dion aimed to investigate whether physical attractiveness influences people’s judgments of other traits, such as kindness, intelligence, or social skills.
How did Dion investigate the halo effect?
Dion conducted a laboratory experiment in which participants were shown photographs of individuals who were either highly attractive or unattractive. They were then asked to rate these individuals on various traits, such as kindness, intelligence, and social skills.
What were the findings of Dion’s study on the halo effect?
Dion found that participants rated physically attractive individuals more positively on all traits compared to unattractive individuals, even when no information was provided about the person’s actual personality or abilities. This supports the idea of the halo effect, where physical attractiveness influences other judgments.
What does Dion’s study show about cognitive biases?
Dion’s study shows that cognitive biases, like the halo effect, can distort our judgments of others by allowing one positive trait (e.g., physical attractiveness) to influence our overall evaluation of their character and abilities. This bias can affect important decisions in social interactions, hiring, and even legal contexts.
