PSY 360 Cognitive Psychology - University Of Phoenix Materia

PSY 360 Cognitive Psychology University of Phoenix Material Memory Worksheet

Using the text, Cognition: The Thinking Animal, the University Library, the Internet, and/or other resources, answer the following questions.

Your response to each question should be at least 150 words in length. 1. What is primary memory? What are the characteristics of primary memory? 2. What is the process of memory from perception to retrieval? What happens when the process is compromised? 3. Is it possible for memory retrieval to be unreliable? Why or why not? What factors may affect the reliability of one’s memory?

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Memory is a fundamental aspect of human cognition that allows individuals to encode, store, and retrieve information essential for daily functioning and learning. Primary memory, also known as short-term or working memory, plays a pivotal role in immediate information processing. Understanding the characteristics of primary memory, the process of memory from perception to retrieval, and the factors influencing its reliability is crucial for comprehending human cognitive limitations and potentials.

Primary Memory and Its Characteristics

Primary memory refers to the temporary storage system that holds and manipulates information for brief periods, typically up to 30 seconds, without the need for conscious effort (Cowan, 2008). It functions as a mental workspace where active thoughts and perceptions are maintained to facilitate ongoing cognitive tasks. One of the defining characteristics of primary memory is its limited capacity, often described by Miller’s (1956) concept of “the magical number seven, plus or minus two,” indicating that it can hold approximately 7 items simultaneously. Additionally, primary memory is highly susceptible to decay and interference; information can easily be lost without rehearsal or encoding into long-term memory (Baddeley, 2012). It is also characterized by its immediacy, serving as a transient buffer that supports tasks like reasoning, problem-solving, and language comprehension.

The Process of Memory from Perception to Retrieval

The process of memory begins with perception, where sensory input is received and attended to. This information is then encoded, transforming sensory data into meaningful mental representations. The encoding process involves various mechanisms such as rehearsal, elaboration, and organization, which facilitate storage in either short-term or long-term memory (Atkinson & Shiffrin, 1968). Consolidation stabilizes the encoded information for durable storage. Retrieval is the recovery of stored information, which can occur through recall or recognition. During retrieval, cues activate memory traces, allowing access to stored data. When the memory process is compromised, such as through interference, decay, or neurological impairments, retrieval failures occur. These failures manifest as forgetfulness, false memories, or distortion of existing memories, which illustrate the vulnerability of the memory system (Schacter et al., 2011).

The Reliability of Memory Retrieval

Memory retrieval is inherently susceptible to unreliability due to several factors. First, memories are reconstructive rather than exact reproductions; during retrieval, the brain reconstructs past events based on available cues, which can lead to errors or distortions (Loftus, 2005). Factors influencing this unreliability include suggestibility, leading questions, and social pressures; these can alter the perceived accuracy of a memory (Roediger & McDermott, 1990). Additionally, emotional states, stress, and the passage of time can distort memories, making them less accurate (Teasdale & Fogarty, 1979). Neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, further compromise retrieval processes because of deterioration in memory-related brain areas. Consequently, while memory is vital for functioning, it is not infallible, and understanding these factors underscores the importance of corroborative evidence and critical evaluation of memories.

Conclusion

Primary memory is a vital component of cognitive functioning, characterized by its limited capacity and immediacy. The process from perception to retrieval involves complex mechanisms vulnerable to interference and decay, which can impair recall and recognition. Recognizing that memory retrieval is inherently imperfect emphasizes the importance of safeguards such as corroboration and awareness of biases, especially in legal and everyday contexts. Understanding these processes and limitations provides valuable insights into human cognition and the potential for improving memory accuracy through targeted strategies.

References

• Baddeley, A. (2012). Working memory: Theories, models, and controversies. Annu. Rev. Psychol., 63, 1-29.
• Cowan, N. (2008). Working memory capacity. Psychology Press.
• Loftus, E. F. (2005). Planting misinformation in the human mind: A 30-year investigation of the malleability of memory. Learning & Memory, 12(4), 361–366.
• Miller, G. A. (1956). The magical number seven, plus or minus two: Some limits on our capacity for processing information. Psychological Review, 63(2), 81–97.
• Roediger, H. L., & McDermott, K. B. (1990). Explicit memory and implicit memory. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 87(20), 7708–7714.
• Schacter, D. L., et al. (2011). The cognitive neuroscience of human memory. Elsevier Academic Press.
• Teasdale, J. D., & Fogarty, S. (1979). The effect of psychological stress on the retrieval of memories. Psychological Medicine, 9(4), 769–778.