Explanations of forgetting

The two explanations for forgetting

• Interference theory (Retroactive and proactive)

• Retrieval failure due to absence of cues

Assumption of Proactive and Retroactive interference

• As new information is learnt the cognitive connections can get confused especially if the information is similar to old information that we already have, this can disrupt/interfere with memory recall leading to forgetting

Proactive

When previous memories interfere with recent similar memories, what you already know interferes with new material you are currently learning leading to greater forgetting

Retroactive

When recent memories interfere with previous similar memories, new current learning interferes with existing knowledge leading to forgetting the older

Evaluation points of interference

Research support +

Artificial lab experiments -

Everyday applications +

Reductionist -

Assumptions of Absence of Cues

• A memory trace is laid down and retained in a memory store as a result of the original perception of an event complete with its surroundings that act as a reminder

• A retrieval cue is a piece of information in the individuals cognitive environment at the time of encoding that matches the time of recall

Absence of context cues

Cues from the environment that are ‘hoovered in’ to the memory trace (what room we are in when learning info)

Absence of state cues

Cues from with us that are hoovered into the memory trace (feeling hungry, emotional state)

Absence of organisational cues

Special type of context cue that helps us arrange and structure knowledge and materials (mnemonics e.g RATA)

Evaluation for Absence of Cues

Research support +

Not complete -

Theoretical issues -

Applications +