Causes and Theories of Forgetting and Memory

Flashcards covering key concepts related to causes of forgetting, memory theories, and categorization.

Decay

A cause of forgetting where memory fades over time.

Interference

A cause of forgetting due to competing information.

Retrieval Failure

Inability to access a memory when needed.

Forgetting Curve

Describes the rate of forgetting; rapid initially, then slows over time.

Avoiding Forgetting

Strategies such as using attention, retrieval cues, and context reinstatement.

Self-Reference Effect

Memory improves when the information relates to oneself.

Memory Bias

Alteration of memory to align with current beliefs and knowledge.

Emotion and Memory

Emotions strengthen memory through activation of the amygdala and hippocampus.

Consolidation

The stabilization of memory, often occurring during sleep.

Flashbulb Memories

Vivid emotional memories that feel accurate but may be distorted.

Hirst Study

Demonstrated that flashbulb memories change over time despite confidence.

Concepts

Categories that help organize knowledge and guide behavior.

Definitions

Rule-based descriptions of categories, often insufficient for complex concepts.

Wittgenstein

Philosopher who argued that many concepts cannot be defined by strict rules.

Family Resemblance

Category membership based on overlapping features rather than strict definitions.

Prototype Theory

Categories are based on an average or ideal example.

Graded Membership

Some category members are more typical than others.

Prototype Influence

Experience and culture shape how prototypes are perceived.

Production Task

A task where typical category members are listed first.

Sentence Verification Task

A task where responses are faster for typical category members.

Rating Task

Typical items receive higher perceived ratings.

Typicality and Attractiveness

More typical items are perceived as more attractive.

Exemplar Theory

Categorization based on specific remembered examples.