What defines proactive interference in memory?

What defines proactive interference in memory?

• A. New memories interfere with old memories
• B. Old memories interfere with new memories
• C. Memories are retrieved incorrectly due to stress
• D. Memories are lost over time

Answer: (B)

Proactive interference occurs when previously learned information interferes with the ability to learn and recall new information. This phenomenon is rooted in the way memories are organized and stored in the brain; older memories can obstruct the retrieval of newer ones because the two pieces of information may be similar or compete for cognitive resources. A classic example of this is when someone who has learned a new phone number might struggle to remember it because their recalled, older phone number keeps popping into mind, making it difficult to access the newer memory. The other options describe different aspects of memory processes. For instance, the idea that new memories interfere with old memories describes retroactive interference, not proactive. Memories being retrieved incorrectly due to stress relates more to the influence of emotion or anxiety on memory recall, while the notion that memories are lost over time touches on the concept of decay in memory but does not fit the definition of proactive interference. Thus, the definition provided accurately captures the essence of proactive interference in memory mechanisms.

Proactive interference occurs when previously learned information interferes with the ability to learn and recall new information. This phenomenon is rooted in the way memories are organized and stored in the brain; older memories can obstruct the retrieval of newer ones because the two pieces of information may be similar or compete for cognitive resources. A classic example of this is when someone who has learned a new phone number might struggle to remember it because their recalled, older phone number keeps popping into mind, making it difficult to access the newer memory.

The other options describe different aspects of memory processes. For instance, the idea that new memories interfere with old memories describes retroactive interference, not proactive. Memories being retrieved incorrectly due to stress relates more to the influence of emotion or anxiety on memory recall, while the notion that memories are lost over time touches on the concept of decay in memory but does not fit the definition of proactive interference. Thus, the definition provided accurately captures the essence of proactive interference in memory mechanisms.