Reconstructive memory ERQ

Reconstructive memory theory

A theory that suggests memory is not a perfect recording of events but is actively reconstructed using schemas and post-event information.

Cognitive process evaluated for reliability

Memory—specifically how emotion, schemas, and leading questions influence its accuracy.

Potential unreliability of memory

Because it can be influenced by misinformation, expectations, and emotional or situational context.

Aim of Loftus & Palmer (1974)

To investigate whether the wording of questions (leading questions) affects eyewitness memory recall.

Participants in Loftus & Palmer study

45 university students.

Procedure of Loftus & Palmer study

Participants watched traffic accident videos and estimated car speed using differently worded questions (e.g., "smashed," "hit").

Results of Loftus & Palmer study

Stronger verbs led to higher speed estimates. "Smashed" = 40.8 mph; "contacted" = 31.8 mph. Many also falsely remembered broken glass.

Conclusion of Loftus & Palmer study

Memory can be distorted by post-event information, showing evidence of reconstructive memory.

Strengths and limitations of Loftus & Palmer study

✅ High control, shows causal relationship.❌ Low ecological validity, artificial setting, non-emotional content.

Aim of Yuille & Cutshall (1986)

To examine the reliability of eyewitness memory for a real, emotionally charged event.

Participants in Yuille & Cutshall study

13 eyewitnesses to a real shooting in Vancouver.

Procedure of Yuille & Cutshall study

4-5 months after the event, witnesses were interviewed and asked misleading questions. Their answers were compared to original police reports.

Results of Yuille & Cutshall study

Witnesses were highly accurate in recalling details; misleading questions had little effect.

Conclusion of Yuille & Cutshall study

Real-life, emotional memories can be highly reliable and resistant to distortion.

Strengths and limitations of Yuille & Cutshall study

✅ High ecological validity.❌ Small sample size, no control over extraneous variables.

Differences in findings about memory reliability

Loftus & Palmer found memory is easily distorted by suggestion; Yuille & Cutshall found memory can remain accurate in real-life, high-emotion situations.

Role of emotion in memory reliability

Emotional intensity may protect memory from distortion, making it more stable and less reconstructive.

Conclusion about reconstructive memory

Memory is reconstructive in low-stakes, artificial settings but may be more reliable in emotionally significant, real-life events.

Main takeaway about reliability of memory

Memory is not always reliable, but emotional context and the nature of the event influence how reconstructive it is.

Research suggestion about eyewitness testimony

Eyewitness memory can be influenced by leading questions, but it may be accurate if the event is emotional and personally significant.