Explanations for forgetting : Interference theory

Question 1

How does interference occur and what does it do?

Answer 1

• One memory disrupts the ability to recall another.
• This causes forgetting or distortion of one of the memories or both of them.

Question 2

What are the types of interference?

Answer 2

• proactive interference
• retroactive interference

Question 3

What is proactive interference?

Answer 3

• Occurs when an older memory interferes with a newer one.
• e.g. a teacher has learnt so many names in the past, they may struggle to remember new ones.

Question 4

What is retroactive interferences?

Answer 4

• Occurs when a newer memory interferes with an older one
• e.g. a teacher has learnt so many names this year, they may struggle to remember past names.