Reconstructive memory

Question 1

What is reconstructive memory?

Answer 1

Reconstructive memory refers to the process of recalling memories, which are not exact copies of events but reconstructions influenced by schemas and external factors.

Memory is an active process where gaps are filled using existing knowledge, expectations, or misleading information, leading to distortions.

Question 2

How does reconstructive memory impact eyewitness testimony?

Answer 2

Memories can be altered by leading questions or post-event information, leading to distortions.

This is particularly evident in eyewitness testimony.

Question 3

What was the aim of Loftus and Palmer’s study (1974)?

Answer 3

Investigate how leading questions affect memory recall of an event.

This study focused on the impact of language on memory.

Question 4

Describe the procedure used in Loftus and Palmer’s study.

Answer 4

Participants viewed 7 short car crash films, described the accident, and answered questions including a critical question about the car’s speed.

The critical question varied across 5 conditions using different verbs.

Question 5

What were the different verbs used in Loftus and Palmer’s study?

Answer 5

• Contacted
• Hit
• Bumped
• Collided
• Smashed

Each verb implied different levels of intensity and subtly suggested different speeds.

Question 6

What were the mean speed estimates for the ‘smashed’ and ‘contacted’ conditions?

Answer 6

• Smashed condition: mean speed = 40.8 mph (highest)
• Contacted condition: mean speed = 31.8 mph (lowest)

This variation illustrates how language influences memory.

Question 7

What do the findings of Loftus and Palmer’s study demonstrate about memory?

Answer 7

Memory was influenced by the verb’s intensity, showing that leading questions can distort recall through suggestion.

This supports the concept of reconstructive memory.

Question 8

How does Loftus and Palmer’s study support the concept of reconstructive memory?

Answer 8

Leading questions triggered participants to reconstruct memory using the implied speed from the verb.

The difference in speed estimates shows memory is not a perfect record but influenced by external cues.

Question 9

True or False: Reconstructive memory means memories are exact copies of events.

Answer 9

False

Reconstructive memory indicates that memories are influenced by various factors and are not exact replicas.