Theories of Forgetting

Chapter 6
Memory
3 Theories of Forgetting

I Interference theory of forgetting: argues that forgetting is due to interference and unlearning caused by other things the person has learned. These new things compete with what he/she is trying to remember. Interference theory maintains LTM is disrupted by interfering activity.

Interference can create confusion between what is already in memory and new learning. Or interference can actually cause the material in memory to be unlearned. (Memory can change in a split second)

Interference busts up consolidation.

Evidence of interference:
A. Retroactive interference: new learning interfering with old learning. The method of testing for retroactive interference is to have the subject learn a list of words (A). Then have the subject learn a second list (B). Then they are asked to recall list A. Can’t recall first list because of interference from list B. (prophylactics prevent memory loss/learning loss. No matter how smart you are you need them. Ex: briefcase)
B. Proactive interference: (opposite of retroactive) Previous learning interferes with new learning. The method for studying proactive interference is having the subject learn list A then list B. Ask them to recall list B. They can’t recall because list B because of interference from list A.
C. Serial Position Effect: suffers from both proactive and retroactive interference. Ex: breaking scripts into scenes.

II Retrieval theory: argues that the problem is with the origin and retrieval of information. According to this view LTM is fairly permanent and information is not lost from it. The difficulties arise in getting access to the information and in pulling it out of storage. (argues that ltm is permanent) Like a filing cabinet.
Evidence of retrieval:
A. Multiple choice vs fill in the blank test (essay): recognition is usually better than recall because recognition provides cues. Recognition vs recall.
B. Tip of the tongue phenomenon: this most directly illustrates problems with retrieval.
C. Brain stimulation studies and hypnosis: hypnosis is a relaxed state. When you are relaxed you have better recall.

III Trace theory of forgetting: explains forgetting in terms of memory trace which decays or becomes distorted over time. This theory is hard to test. It argues that memory is like a muscle. If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.