long term memory

The WMM shows that the MSM is oversimplified, as there is more than one type of STM, this is the same for LTM. Research shows there are different types of LTM with different functions and associated brain regions.

Main subdivisions split into explicit/declarative (memories recalled if consciously thought about) and implicit/non-declarative (memories that don’t require conscious thought to be recalled)

• Types of explicit LTM: semantic and episodic

• Types of implicit LTM: procedural

long term memory types

Episodic:

• Tulving — autobiographical record of personal experiences

• These memories are influenced by the emotions you felt at the time the memory was coded

Research: Helitz et al — assessed explicit LTM ability of 1000 Swedish ppts, females performed better than males on episodic tasks but no differences in semantic LTM ability, this suggests there are different LTMs.

Semantic:

• Explicit memory type

• Contains all knowledge (facts, concepts, meanings etc.) and general knowledge

• Linked to episodic memories, as new memories tend to be learned from experiences

• Over time, there will be a gradual move from episodic to semantic, with knowledge becoming divorced from the experience that it was learned in

Research: Tulving

Procedural:

• Implicit memory, permits individuals the ability to perform learned tasks with little conscious thought

• Many procedural memories occur early in life, involving language and important motor skills like walking

Research: Finke et al — PM, 68 year old cellist who suffered damage to several brain areas after contracting encephalitis, resulting in amnesia. Episodic and semantic memories were very affected, but he could read and play music unaffected. Another example: Clive Wearing.