Memory - Reconstructive Memory Theory (Bartlett, 1932)

Question 1

Explain Reconstructive Memory Theory

Answer 1

Means our memories are no exact copies but are influenced by our prior knowledge.

Question 2

Define Schema

Answer 2

A packet of knowledge about a person/place/event that influences how we perceive and remember

Question 3

What do Schemas form?

Answer 3

• Personal experience
• Steriotypes
• Culture

Question 4

Define Omissions

Answer 4

We leave out unfamiliar, unpleasent or irrelevent details

Question 5

Define Transformations

Answer 5

Details are changed to make them more rational

Question 6

Define Familiarisation

Answer 6

We change unfamiliar details to align with our own scheme

Question 7

Define Rationalisation

Answer 7

We add details to our recall to give a reason for something that my not have orginally fitted with a schema

Question 8

Strength of theory

Answer 8

Real world application e.g police can use it to interveiw as it shown that eyewitnesses are unreliable
Useful e.g test of memory

Question 9

Weakness of theory

Answer 9

Not useful
1. Own interpretation therefore subjective
2. Not scientific so weakens the research