EWT

• What is the definition of EWT?

  Evidence provided by those recalling an event who were present when the event took place
• What have many researchers suggested?

  That memory is not a perfect representation of an event. It is a RECONSTRUCTION and can be inaccurate

  It can suffer at any of the three stages:

  • CODING - put into memory
  • STORAGE - maintain in memory
  • REVTRIEVAL - recover from memory
• What can memory (in common with perception) be described as?


  reconstructive
• What do we do if there are gaps in sequences or events?

  We fill in the missing information from the cues available, using our prior experiences and expectations (or SCHEMAS)
• What can schemas lead to?

  Memory distortions when information doesn't fit with existing schemas. Eg our memory might be influenced by CULTURAL EXPECTATIONS OR STEREOTYPES.
• What can Active memory processing lead us to do?

  can lead us to report distorted memories

  This is particularly concerning with EWT
• What is CONFABULATION?

  The process whereby memories are adjusted to conform to a person's prior expectations
• What is a schema?

  a readiness to interpret sensory information in a pre-set manner
• what are the factors affecting the accuracy of EWT?

  1. Misleading information, including leading questions and post-event information
  2. Anxiety levels