Memory
by Tara Kershaw
What is memory?
Memory refers to the mental processes that enables us to acquire, retain, and retrieve information through three processes, encoding, storage and retrieval.
The Stages
Sensory Memory
The first step in memory is Sensory Memory. Can register a large amount of information about environment and surroundings. Happens in a matter of seconds unconsciously.
Short-Term Memory
Also called Working Memory, Short-Term memory happens for up to 20 seconds. This process is increased by reputation, maintenance rehearsal, and chunking.
Long Term Memory
Long Term Memory is memories stored longer then 20 seconds. Some last forever, and don't take much effort into retrieving. some retrieval cues, such as visual images help trigger information. Does take time to become a Long Term Memory.
Forgetting
how does it happen?
There are different reasons we forget for example there is when the information was never encoded into long term memory is encoding failure. Another example is Decay Theory where we lose the memories as time goes on.
False Memories
Misinformation Effect
Misinformation Effect occurs when erroneous information after the event effects witnesses memory.
Source Confusion
This happens when the actual source of the memory is forgotten and then memory is contributed with a different source.
Eye Witness Testimonies
Eye witnesses are never 100% accurate because of the witness's views and beliefs play a part in there interpretation of the memory.
Mental Disorders that Effect Memories
Amnesia
Amnesia is sever memory lost that is caused by swelling of the brain. Sometimes these memories are never able to be retrieved again. Happens usually do to a brain injury.
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's is the most common form of Dementia and it destroys the brains neurons and impairs memories. The cause is still not none and no cure for it.
Stress
Stress can cause memories issues aswell. Stress releases a hormone called cortisol and that causes information to not be processed and cause Short Term Memory Lost.
Sources
Emling, S. (n.d.). Study Reveals Surprising Link Between Stress And Memory Loss. Retrieved October 10, 2015.
Hockenbury, D., & Hockenbury, S. (2012). Memory. In Psychology (6th ed., pp. 232-271). New york: Worth publisher.