Everyday Memory Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and details surrounding memory processes, types of memory, and techniques for improving recall, tailored for exam preparation.

What is memory, broadly defined?

Memory refers to a family of processes involved in encoding, storing, and retrieving information about our experiences.

What is short-term memory?

Short-term memory refers to information stored for a short duration, fading after several seconds if not actively attended to.

How is long-term memory different from short-term memory?

Long-term memory involves the long-term storage of information that can span years, while short-term memory lasts only moments.

What phenomenon describes the forgetting of information over time?

Transience.

What is absent-mindedness in the context of memory?

The failure to encode information due to inattention or distraction.

What is the tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon?

A feeling where a person is unable to retrieve a word or name they know, despite remembering aspects of it.

How does the Deese/Roediger-McDermott effect demonstrate memory suggestibility?

People often 'remember' words that were not presented but are related to the words that were shown.

What is the impact of the Google effect on memory?

Accessing information on the internet can lower memory for that information as people rely more on external sources.

What does it mean to say memory is constructive?

Memory is constructed during recall, with individuals filling in missing gaps based on beliefs and experiences.

What is hyperthymestic syndrome?

A condition where individuals have an extraordinary ability to recall personal life experiences and events in great detail.

What role does emotion play in memory retention?

Emotions can enhance memory retention, especially for significant events, creating vivid and often persistent memories.

What are flashbulb memories?

Vivid and detailed recollections of emotionally charged events.

What does the term suggestibility refer to in memory processes?

The tendency to reshape one's memory according to misleading or suggestive information.

What is misattribution in the context of memory?

Confusion about the source of a memory, such as recalling the context incorrectly.

What are some strategies to improve memory encoding?

Chunking, elaboration, hierarchical organization, and the method of loci.

What did Hermann Ebbinghaus discover regarding memory retention?

Forgetting occurs most rapidly soon after learning, known as the forgetting curve.

What is the testing effect in memory?

The phenomenon where information is better retained after being practiced during retrieval (testing), compared to just studying.

What is state-dependent memory?

Improved recall of information when an individual is in the same emotional or physical state during retrieval as they were during encoding.

What is the primary focus of the cognitive interview for eyewitness testimony?

To promote accurate recall by encouraging open-ended responses and minimizing suggestive questioning.

How does the spacing effect improve memory retention?

Distributing study sessions over time leads to better retention compared to cramming all at once.