Memory Distortion and Misinformation Effect

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to memory distortion, the misinformation effect, and related psychological principles as discussed in the lecture notes.

Misinformation Effect

Erroneous information leading to distorted memories; information learned after an event interferes with the original memory.

Episodic Memory

A category of long-term memory that involves the recollection of specific events and experiences.

Memory Reconstruction

The process of recalling memories which may change them based on new information.

Leading Question

A question that prompts or suggests the desired answer.

False Memory

A recollection of an event that did not actually occur or was altered.

Eyewitness Testimony

A legal term for the account given by people who witnessed an event, often used in court.

Source Confusion

When the source of a memory is incorrectly attributed, leading to altered recollections.

Elizabeth Loftus

A psychologist known for her research on memory distortion and the misinformation effect.

Research Findings

Results obtained from systematic investigation into memory, often revealing the fragility and malleability of human recall.

Control Group

In an experiment, the group that does not receive the experimental treatment and is used as a benchmark.

Experimental Group

The group in an experiment that receives the treatment or condition being tested.

Visual Imagery

The ability to recreate visual images in one's mind, important for memory retrieval.

Remembering Distortions

Changes or inaccuracies that can occur in memories over time, influenced by various factors.

Childhood Trauma

Emotional and psychological harm that occurs during childhood, often resulting in complex memory issues.

Contextual Information

Details about the situation or environment surrounding an event that can influence memory.

Intrusive Memories

Unwelcome and involuntary memories that can be distressing and disruptive.

Memory Wars

A period of debate over the validity of repressed and recovered memories in cases of childhood abuse.

Repressed Memories

Memories that have been unconsciously blocked due to traumatic experiences.

Cognitive Dissonance

The mental discomfort experienced when holding two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or ideas.

Schema

A cognitive framework or concept that helps organize and interpret information.

Deja Vu

The sensation that one has lived through the present situation before, often attributed to source confusion.

Judicial Reform

Changes made to legal practices aimed at improving the reliability of eyewitness evidence.

Psychological Impact

The effect that psychological factors have on a person's mind and behavior, particularly after traumatic events.

Consultative Process

An approach to gathering information from experts or authorities before making a judgment.

Forensic Evidence

Physical evidence collected from a crime scene to assist in legal investigations and trials.

Ethics in Memory Research

The moral principles guiding the use of memory studies, especially concerning vulnerable populations.

Suggestion in Memory

Influence of external prompts on an individual's recall, which may distort the accuracy of memories.

Hypnosis and Memory

A practice that some believe can help recover repressed memories, though it's controversial due to its potential for distortion.

Witness Preparation

The process of preparing eyewitnesses for court testimony, aimed at minimizing misinformation effects.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

A type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing unhelpful cognitive distortions and behaviors.

Mechanical Perspectives

Understanding memory through the lens of processes similar to machines rather than as a purely human experience.

Trauma Counseling

Therapeutic practices focused on helping individuals heal from psychological trauma.

Memory Reliability

The degree to which memories can be trusted to accurately reflect past events.

Law Enforcement Practices

Techniques and methodologies used by police and investigators, particularly regarding eyewitness identification.