Reconstructive Memory

• the term reconstructive refers to theory that we build a version of events that happened and store them in memory
• * schemas are important part of memory

  * sometimes we misremember things bc they closely resemble past situations we've been in
• schemas drive our expectations so that we go into situations knowing what's going to happen from memory rather than relying on direct experiences; means we could miss a change in proceedings
• also use schemas as part of confabulation; this is where people create false memories but not consciously; can happen when we remember key points but not details
• memories can become distorted bc of something we see somewhere else; people are vulnerable to leading questions as the way a question is phrased can change their memory
• criticisms?

  * concept is too abstract as schemas can't be tested for

  * doesn't explain why confabulation or distortion happen, just that they do
• positives of theory?

  * not reductionist and takes a holistic approach