Memory Processes and Amnesia

Flashcards covering key concepts related to memory processes, types of memory, and amnesia based on the lecture notes.

What is memory according to Herman Ebbinghaus (1885)?

Memory is the process by which information is retained for later use.

What is Short-term Memory (STM)?

STM holds approximately 7 items ± 2 for about 20 seconds; after 20 seconds, material is either transferred to Long-term Memory (LTM) or forgotten.

What is the key to transferring information from STM to LTM?

Elaborative rehearsal, which involves thinking about information in a deeper way.

What are the four steps involved in the information flow into memory?

1. Attention 2. Encoding 3. Storage 4. Retrieval.

What is a memory task that requires reproduction of information without external cues?

Free recall, such as essay tests or spelling tests without prompts.

What is procedural memory?

Stored long-term memories for how to do things, like ice skating or riding a bike.

What is an example of anterograde amnesia?

Korsakoff’s syndrome, where an individual cannot store new information in long-term memory.

What is retrograde amnesia?

Inability to retrieve long-term memories from the past.

What does 'engram' refer to in memory studies?

The physical representation of memory in the brain.

Which brain structures are essential for memories of emotional significance?

The amygdala and hippocampus.