Lifespan CH7

Sensory Memory

Briefly holds incoming sensory info (seconds).

Attention

Filters information to focus on what’s relevant.

Working Memory

Holds and manipulates info temporarily.

Central Executive

Directs attention, controls flow between memory stores.

Executive Functioning

Broad control system: planning organizing, inhibiting impulses.

Long-Term Memory

Permanent storage for information.

Processing Speed

How fast the brain takes in and responds to information.

Attention

Improves with age; infants’ attention is short

Executive Functioning

Grows in adolescence (frontal lobe maturity); adults rely more on experience and efficiency.

Long-Term Memory

Expands in childhood; best in early adulthood; may decline slightly with age.

Processing Speed

Increases through childhood/adolescence; slows in older adulthood.

Thinking

Becomes more abstract and logical in adolescence; wisdom replaces speed in older adults.

Working Memory

Expands during childhood; peaks in young

Autobiographical Memory

Personal life memories.

Categorization

Grouping info by shared traits.

Divided Attention

Splitting focus between tasks.

Episodic Memory

Memory for specific events. Remembering your first day of school.

Expertise

Deep knowledge in a specific area.

Memory Strategies

Techniques to retain info.

Rehearsal: repetition

Organization: grouping, Elaboration: linking ideas.

Metacognition

Thinking about your own thinking.

Metamemory

Understanding how your memory works.

Positivity Effect

Older adults remember positive info more than negative.

Reminiscence Bump

Adults recall more memories from ages 10–30.

Selective Attention

Focusing on one task

Selective Optimization with Compensation

Adapting by focusing on strengths and compensating for losses.

Sustained Attention

Maintaining focus over time.

Theory of Mind

Understanding others’ thoughts and feelings differ from your own.

Wisdom

Deep insight into life, combining knowledge and emotion.