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Memory and Forgetting Notes

Psychology

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Omama Arshad
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20 views3 pages

Memory and Forgetting Notes

Psychology

Uploaded by

Omama Arshad
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Memory and Forgetting Notes

1. What is Memory?
Memory is the process of learning that has persisted over time, information that has been
stored and can be retrieved. In simpler terms, memory is the ability to remember what has
been learned in the past.

Key Concept: Memory involves both the storage and retrieval of information. Woodworth
presented the “L – I – R” formula to study memory:
- L: Learning
- I: Interval
- R: Remembering
Learning is the most crucial element of memory, as without learning, there is nothing to
retain or recall. The process of memory depends on learning and the ability to recall
information after a time gap or interval.

2. Types of Memory
Sensory Memory:
- The initial, very brief storage of sensory information, retaining it for less than a half-
second.

Short Term Memory (STM):


- Also known as Primary Memory or Working Memory, it stores information for about 20 to
30 seconds.

Long Term Memory (LTM):


- Also referred to as Secondary Memory, it involves the relatively permanent storage of
information, although retrieval may sometimes be difficult.

Subtypes of Long-Term Memory:


Episodic Memory:
- Memory of personal experiences and specific events, such as your first day at college or
your brother’s graduation.

Semantic Memory:
- Memory of facts and general knowledge, such as knowing that grass is green or
recognizing the capital of a country.

Procedural Memory:
- Memory of motor and cognitive skills, such as riding a bike, tying shoelaces, or playing a
musical instrument.
Note: Episodic and Semantic Memory are types of conscious memory, also known as
“knowing that” memory, which helps in recalling facts and experiences. Procedural Memory,
on the other hand, is not consciously recalled and is known as “knowing how” memory.

3. What is Forgetting?
Forgetting refers to the failure to either recall or retain information in present
consciousness. It can also mean excluding material from the conscious mind.

4. Causes of Forgetting
Proactive Interference:
- Occurs when information learned earlier disrupts the recall of newer material.

Retroactive Interference:
- Occurs when new information interferes with the recall of previously learned material.

Additional Causes:
Brain Shock or Trauma:
- Due to head injuries, accidents, or damage to the brain.

Decay of Brain Cells:


- Due to old age.

Unconscious Reasons:
- Frustration, stress, anxiety, or repression (a defense mechanism that blocks painful
thoughts from consciousness).

Emotional Factors:
- Fear, anger, or extreme grief can lead to forgetting.

Overlearning and Lack of Sleep:


- Can cause forgetting.

Intoxication:
- Drug addiction, alcohol, and opium use can affect active recall.

Disinterest and Lack of Motivation:


- Can lead to forgetting.

5. Methods of Enhancing Memory


Associations:
- Activating particular associations in memory can improve recall. For example, hearing the
word “day” might unconsciously trigger the memory of “night.”
Context Effects:
- Being in the same context where an event was experienced can help recall that event.

Mood and State of Mind:


- Recall is often better when in the same mood or state of mind as when the memory was
formed. For example, sad events are more easily recalled when feeling sad.

Studying Repeatedly:
- Repetition with understanding can boost long-term memory.

Using Mnemonics:
- Imagery and meaningful associations can enhance memory retention.

Organizing Information:
- Encoding information through meaningful units or chunks, like chapter outlines and
headings, can improve recall.

Studying Before Sleep:


- Studying just before sleep can minimize interference and help with better retention.

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