PSYC 104: Memory

Memory

The storage of information beyond the time that a stimulus is available to the senses.

Encoding

The process of putting information into memory.

Storage

The process of holding information in memory over time.

Retrieval

The process of recovering information from memory.

Consolidation

A physiological change in the brain that allows encoded information to become stored in memory.

Hippocampus

A structure in the limbic system that is critical for memory formation and recall.

Sensory Memory

Brief retention of sensory information after the stimulus disappears.

Iconic Memory

Sensory memory for visual information.

Echoic Memory

Sensory memory for auditory information.

Short-Term Memory (STM)

A limited-capacity memory store that holds information for about 20–30 seconds without rehearsal.

Rehearsal

Repetitively verbalizing information to keep it active in STM.

Chunking

Grouping information into meaningful units to increase STM capacity.

Working Memory

An active memory system used to temporarily store and manipulate information.

Long-Term Memory (LTM)

A memory system with very large capacity that stores information for long periods.

Flashbulb Memory

A vivid memory for an emotionally significant event.

Serial Position Effect

The tendency to recall the first and last items in a list better than middle items.

Primacy Effect

Better recall of items presented at the beginning of a list.

Recency Effect

Better recall of items presented at the end of a list.

Spreading Activation

Activation of one memory node triggers related memories in a network.

Schema

An organized cluster of knowledge about people, places, objects, or events.

Script

A schema for a sequence of actions in a familiar situation.

Semantic Memory

Memory for general knowledge and facts.

Episodic Memory

Memory for personal experiences and autobiographical events.

Mnemonic

A memory aid used to improve recall.

Memory Reconstruction

The process by which memories are altered or rebuilt during recall.

Memory Distortion

Changes in memory caused by misleading information or suggestions.

Pseudoforgetting

Apparent forgetting because information was never properly learned.

Decay Theory

The idea that memories fade over time if not used.

Interference Theory

Forgetting occurs because other information competes with retrieval.

Proactive Interference

Older information interferes with learning or recalling newer information.

Retroactive Interference

Newer information interferes with recalling older information.

Elaboration

Connecting new information to existing knowledge to improve memory.

Self-Referent Encoding

Encoding information by relating it to oneself.