Why We Forget: Cognitive Theories

Why We Forget: Cognitive Theories

Understanding memory and forgetting Cognitive Psychology perspectives Year 10 Psychology

What is Forgetting?

The inability to retrieve previously stored information Normal part of human memory processes Can be temporary or permanent Different from never learning the information

The Forgetting Curve

Decay Theory

Memory traces fade over time without use Physical changes in the brain deteriorate 'Use it or lose it' principle Explains forgetting in long-term memory

Interference Theory

New learning interferes with old memories Proactive interference: old memories block new ones Retroactive interference: new memories disrupt old ones Competition between similar memories

Types of Interference

{"left":"Proactive Interference\nOld learning blocks new learning\nExample: Your old phone number interfering with remembering your new one","right":"Retroactive Interference\nNew learning disrupts old memories\nExample: Learning French after Spanish affects Spanish recall"}

Retrieval Failure Theory

Information is stored but cannot be accessed Missing or inadequate retrieval cues Memory is context-dependent 'Tip-of-the-tongue' phenomenon

Memory Retrieval Activity

Think of your last birthday party Write down 3 details you remember Now think about the music that was playing Did this cue help you remember more details? Discuss with a partner how cues helped your recall

Think About It

Why might it be beneficial to forget some information? Consider: outdated phone numbers, embarrassing moments, traumatic events How might forgetting help us adapt to new situations?

Summary: Why We Forget

Decay Theory: memories fade without use Interference Theory: competing memories disrupt recall Retrieval Failure: information exists but cannot be accessed Forgetting serves important adaptive functions Understanding these theories helps improve learning strategies