why we forget
What is decay theory?
This theory suggests that memory traces fade over time if they are not reinforced.
What is proactive interference?
Old information blocking new information is called this.
What is the spacing effect?
Studying in spaced intervals instead of cramming demonstrates this effect.
What is failure to encode?
This type of forgetting occurs because information was never properly stored in long-term memory.
What is retroactive interference?
New information blocking old information is called this.
What is the testing effect?
Actively recalling information rather than rereading notes strengthens memory through this.
What is retrieval failure?
This occurs when a memory exists but cannot be accessed due to missing or weak cues.
What is retroactive interference?
Studying psychology after sociology and confusing the terms is an example of this.
What is elaborative rehearsal?
Connecting new information to personal meaning or prior knowledge is called this.
What is the tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon?
This phenomenon involves knowing a word but being temporarily unable to produce it.
What is proactive interference?
Studying Spanish before learning French makes French harder to learn. This is an example of this.
What are mnemonics?
Using acronyms, vivid imagery, or memory tricks to improve recall is called this.
Freud proposed this controversial explanation for forgetting painful memories.
What is similar?
When two sets of information share similar cues, categories, or meanings, they are more likely to compete at retrieval.
What is the generation effect?
Creating your own example, definition, or explanation (instead of copying) boosts later recall.