Explanations for Forgetting

• There are two main explanations, Interference and Retrieval Failure
• Interference-Two pieces of information conflict with each other, there are two types, proactive and retroactive
• Proactive-Older memories disrupt newer ones
• Retroactive-Newer memories disrupt older ones
• In both PI and RI, memory is worse when info is similar, proved by Mcgeogh and Mcdonald. Gave 2 different word lists one after the other, Found that word lists that were similar had the worst recall
• One strength is there is real life evidence for interference. Baddeley and Hitch for rugby players to recall names and teams they played. The further back they played them, the worse the recall.
• one limitation is interference is temporary and cane be aided to remember with cues
• one limitation of interference is studies use artificial tasks which decreases ecological validity of theory
• Retrieval failure-Memory available but not accessible.
• Encoding specificity principle (ESP)Tulving – forgetting occurs if cues at encoding and retrieval are different or absent when recalling
• Context-dependent forgetting-Godden and Baddeley's study of deep-sea divers – recall in environment different from where learning took place, worse retrieval when environments were different
• State-dependent forgetting-Carter and Cassaday's study of hay-fever medication – physical or psychological state different from when learning took place. Worse recall when states were different.
• One strength of retrieval failure is there is research support- Baddeley and Godden and Carter and Cassady
• One strength is retrieval cues are used in everyday life