Unit 2.7: Forgetting and Other Memory Challenges

Question 1

Forgetting Curve

Answer 1

A graph developed by Hermann Ebbinghaus that shows how information is forgotten over time without reinforcement; rapid loss initially, then levels off.

Question 2

Memory Decay

Answer 2

The fading of unused memories over time from long-term memory.

Question 3

Encoding Failure

Answer 3

Failure to properly store information in memory, often due to lack of attention or ineffective encoding strategies.

Question 4

Retrieval Cue Failure

Answer 4

Inability to recall a memory due to missing or weak retrieval cues.

Question 5

Tip-of-the-Tongue Phenomenon

Answer 5

The feeling that you know a piece of information but can’t quite retrieve it at the moment.

Question 6

Proactive Interference

Answer 6

When older information interferes with the ability to recall newer information; “forward-acting.”

Question 7

Retroactive Interference

Answer 7

When newer information interferes with the recall of older information; “backward-acting.”

Question 8

Repression

Answer 8

An unconscious defense mechanism where the mind blocks distressing thoughts or memories from conscious awareness.

Question 9

Distress

Answer 9

Negative stress that causes anxiety and is perceived as harmful.

Question 10

Eustress

Answer 10

Positive stress that can be motivating or perceived as beneficial.

Question 11

Ego

Answer 11

The rational part of the personality that balances the desires of the id and the morals of the superego; operates in reality.

Question 12

Superego

Answer 12

The moral component of personality, representing internalized ideals and values; located in the preconscious.

Question 13

Id

Answer 13

The instinctual, pleasure-seeking part of personality focused on satisfying basic urges and drives; located in the unconscious.

Question 14

Defense Mechanisms

Answer 14

Unconscious psychological strategies used by the ego to manage anxiety and internal conflict by distorting reality.

Question 15

Constructive Memory

Answer 15

The idea that memories are not exact records but are reconstructed and may include assumptions, biases, or new information.

Question 16

Reconsolidation

Answer 16

The process of restabilizing a memory after it has been retrieved and potentially altered.

Question 17

Misinformation Effect

Answer 17

A distortion of memory that occurs when misleading or incorrect information is introduced after the memory is formed.