Psychology Lecture on Memory Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the first stage of the Information Processing Model of memory?

Encoding (correct)

Storage

Review

Retrieval

Which model of memory emphasizes the depth of mental processing for effective recall?

Information Processing Model

Traditional Three-Stage Memory Model

Parallel Distributed Processing Model

Levels of Processing Model (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a stage in the Information Processing Model?

Encoding

Retrieval

Storage

Reflection (correct)

How does the process of retrieval work according to the Information Processing Model?

It requires actively reviewing practiced information. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of memory storage, what is the difference between short-term and long-term storage?

Long-term storage requires more attention and practice than short-term storage. Signup and view all the answers

Which model likens human memory processes to a computer's operations?

Information Processing Model Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor that enhances the ability to retrieve information, as per the Information Processing Model?

Regular practice and self-testing Signup and view all the answers

In memory processes, why is encoding a crucial step?

It directly influences how information can be retrieved later. Signup and view all the answers

What is the process whereby memories stored in long-term memory become temporarily inaccessible?

Retrieval failure Signup and view all the answers

What effect describes better recall of items at the beginning and end of a list compared to those in the middle?

Serial position effect Signup and view all the answers

Which type of amnesia refers to the inability to form new memories after an incident?

Anterograde amnesia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies is NOT effective for improving memory?

Using massed practice Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon describes initially dismissing information from an unreliable source, but later accepting it as credible?

Sleeper effect Signup and view all the answers

What is characterized by vivid and lasting memories of significant emotional events?

Flashbulb memories Signup and view all the answers

Which type of memory loss is associated with Alzheimer's disease?

Anterograde amnesia Signup and view all the answers

What memory strategy involves spreading out study sessions over time rather than cramming?

Distributed practice Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical capacity of Short-Term Memory (STM)?

5-9 items Signup and view all the answers

Which process helps transfer information from Short-Term Memory to Long-Term Memory?

Maintenance rehearsal Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration that information lasts in Sensory Memory?

1/2 second to 4 seconds Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Long-Term Memory (LTM)?

Retention for short bursts Signup and view all the answers

Ebbinghaus found that the rate of forgetting is highest at which time?

Immediately after learning Signup and view all the answers

What theory suggests that memories deteriorate over time?

Decay theory Signup and view all the answers

Which type of rehearsal aids in making information more meaningful to improve transfer to LTM?

Elaborative rehearsal Signup and view all the answers

Interference theory suggests that forgetting occurs because memories compete with one another. What are the implications of this theory?

One memory can obstruct the retrieval of another. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Parallel Distributed Processing (PDP) model suggest about memorization?

Memory processing occurs simultaneously across interconnected networks. Signup and view all the answers

How is memory represented in the Parallel Distributed Processing model?

Through a network of interconnected neurons where related memories can trigger one another. Signup and view all the answers

According to the Levels of Processing model, what enhances memory retention?

Making meaningful connections with the information. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement describes sensory memory?

It retains brief impressions of sensory input for a fraction of a second. Signup and view all the answers

What is one key feature of short-term memory?

It allows for storage of information for around 20-30 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main disadvantage of shallow processing according to the Levels of Processing model?

It generally leads to weaker memory retention. Signup and view all the answers

What cognitive function does the PDP model best explain in daily life?

Handling complex tasks by processing multiple inputs simultaneously. Signup and view all the answers

How might the PDP model explain the recall of a childhood memory triggered by a smell?

Through the interconnectedness of sensory inputs and emotional experiences. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Memory Lecture Overview

The lecture covers the nature of memory, forgetting, biological bases of memory, memory and the criminal justice system, and strategies to improve memory.

The Nature of Memory

Memory is an internal record or representation of past events or experiences.
Memory is a constructive process where information is actively organized and shaped during processing, storage, and retrieval.

Models of Memory

Information Processing Model: Memory is like a computer with encoding, storage, and retrieval stages.
- Encoding: taking in information (visual, auditory, semantic).
- Storage: holding encoded information (short-term or long-term).
- Retrieval: accessing the stored information.
Parallel Distributed Processing (PDP) Model: Memory is a vast network of interconnected units (neurons) processing information simultaneously. Information is distributed across a network. This model is useful for complex tasks like multitasking.
Levels of Processing Model: Deeper processing leads to better memory retention (e.g., understanding meaning is better than superficial processing).
Traditional Three-Stage Memory Model: Different storage boxes for different lengths of time.
- Sensory Memory: brief sensory input (sights, sounds, smells).
- Short-Term Memory (STM): Temporary holding area (about 20-30 seconds); limited capacity (7 ± 2 items).
- Long-Term Memory (LTM): Relatively permanent storage; unlimited capacity. LTM can be improved by organization, elaborative rehearsal, and retrieval cues.

Application in Daily Life

Information processing model is helpful for study habits.
- Effective encoding strengthens retention.
- Testing improves retrieval.
PDP model explains why a particular sensory input (e.g., smell, sound) can trigger related memories. This is helpful for multitasking.
Levels of processing model helps understand understanding new information.
- Deep processing enhances learning.
Traditional three-stage model helps understand how information is initially processed and recalled. Rehearsal is helpful to move information from short-term to long-term.

Biological Bases of Memory

Long-term potentiation (LTP): changes in neurons.
- Repeated stimulation of a synapse strengthens the synapse.
- The ability to release neurotransmitters can be increased or decreased.
Hormones also impact memory.
Flashbulb memories: vivid images of emotionally charged occurrences.
Memory is localized but also distributes throughout the brain.

Memory and the Criminal Justice System

Eyewitness accounts can be flawed due to memory issues.
Repressed memories are a debatable concept regarding accuracy.

Using Psychology to Improve Our Memory

Strategies for boosting memory:
- Pay attention.
- Use effective rehearsal techniques.
- Organize information.
- Counteract serial position effect.
- Manage study time.
- Use the encoding specificity principle.
- Use self-monitoring and overlearning.
- Use mnemonic devices.

Forgetting

Ebbinghaus found that forgetting occurs immediately after learning, but relearning takes less time.
5 theories of forgetting:
- Decay theory: Memory fades over time.
- Interference theory: Information competes with other information.
  - Retroactive interference: New information interferes with old information.
  - Proactive interference: Old information interferes with new information.
- Motivated forgetting: People forget painful, threatening, or embarrassing information.
- Encoding failure: New information isn't encoded properly.
- Retrieval failure: Stored information is momentarily inaccessible.

Overcoming Problems With Forgetting

Serial position effect, source amnesia, sleeper effect, and distributed practice are all issues which affect remembrance. Techniques for overcoming such issues are also highlighted.

Amnesia

Amnesia is the loss of memory due to brain injury or disease.
- Retrograde amnesia: loss of past memories.
- Anterograde amnesia: inability to form new memories.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive mental deterioration. Memory loss is the defining characteristic.

Sperling's Experiment with Sensory Memory

-(Detailed information on experiment is provided in the document)

Short-Term Memory

STM is a temporary holding area for information.
Capacity is limited to about 7 +/- 2 chunks. -maintenance rehearsal and chunking techniques can improve storage capacity and time of remembrance

Long-Term Memory

LTM is a relatively permanent storage with unlimited capacity.
Different types of LTM are described.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts about memory, including its nature, the biological underpinnings, and how memory relates to the criminal justice system. You'll explore various models of memory, such as the Information Processing Model and Parallel Distributed Processing. Test your understanding of memory functions and strategies for improvement.