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Understanding Forgetting: Interference Theory Explained

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Theodora Li

7/25/2022

Psychology

Explanations for forgetting: Interference

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Cognitive Psychology

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Cognitive Psychology

Understanding Forgetting: Interference Theory Explained

Interference Theory of Forgetting is a comprehensive explanation of memory loss that occurs when different pieces of information disrupt each other in long-term memory. The theory primarily focuses on two types of interference: proactive interference and retroactive interference, with similarity between memories playing a crucial role in the strength of interference effects.

Key points:

  • Interference is strongest when memories share similarities
  • McGeoch and McDonald's 1931 study provides empirical support
  • Real-world applications demonstrated through studies with rugby players
  • Drug studies support the theory through retrograde facilitation
  • Memory accessibility can be improved through proper cueing
...

7/25/2022

698

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Subjects

Psychology

Cognitive Psychology

Cognitive Psychology

 

Psychology

•

698

•

Jul 25, 2022

•

1 page

Understanding Forgetting: Interference Theory Explained

user profile picture

Theodora Li

@theodorali

Interference Theory of Forgetting is a comprehensive explanation of memory loss that occurs when different pieces of information disrupt each other in long-term memory. The theory primarily focuses on two types of interference: proactive interference and retroactive interference, with

... Show more
<h2 id="typesofinterferenceinmemory">Types of Interference in Memory</h2> <p>In psychology, there are two types of interference that can af

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Understanding Interference Theory

The page delves into the fundamental concepts of interference theory of forgetting and its supporting research.

Definition: Interference theory occurs when two pieces of information disrupt each other, primarily affecting long-term memory.

Types of Interference:

Vocabulary:

  • Proactive interference (PI): When older memories interfere with newer ones
  • Retroactive interference (RI): When newer memories interfere with older ones

Research Evidence:

Example: McGeoch and McDonald's 1931 study demonstrated that similar materials (synonyms) produced the worst recall, supporting that interference is strongest between similar memories.

Strengths of the Theory:

Highlight:

  • Drug studies support the theory through retrograde facilitation
  • Real-world evidence from studies with rugby players increases ecological validity
  • Interference effects can be overcome using proper memory cues

Limitations:

Highlight:

  • Laboratory studies may create artificially ideal conditions
  • Interference might be less common in everyday situations
  • Most forgetting might be better explained by alternative theories

Supporting Research:

Quote: "Coenen and Van Luijtelaar (1997) found that recall of words learned under diazepam was poorer than the placebo control group, while recall of material learned before drug administration was better."

Memory Accessibility:

Example: Tulving and Psotka's research showed that category cues could restore recall levels to around 70%, suggesting interference causes temporary accessibility issues rather than permanent loss.

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Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

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Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

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Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

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Marco B

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Elisha

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This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user