Explanations of Forgetting

Explanations of Forgetting

1. McGeoch + McDonald

   • learn 2 lists, 2 different groups
     • one list = synonyms, one list = nonsense
       • recall first list
         • group w/ nonsense = 26% recall
           • group w/ synonyms = 18% recall
   • support similarity

2. PROACTIVE

   • when 2 sets of info compete and one gets overwritten
   • OLD info disrupts learning + retention of NEW

3. RETROACTIVE

   • NEW info disrupts recall of OLD
   • POSTMAN STUDY
     • one list of paired words, group 2 had a second list with different words, task to recall first list
       • supports retroactive

4. SIMILARITY

   • increases interference

5. ARTIFICIAL

   • not real life situation to remember lists
     • generated for purpose of experiment
       • little relevance to real life + unlikely to explain fors

6. CERASO

   • temporary, test memory after 24 hours + showed spontaneous recovery
     • suggest interference occurs when memories are temporarily unaccessible
       • interference is an incomplete explanation - doesn't explain how memory is permanently lost