Memory Types and Stages (2)

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Memory Types and Stages

1. Define memory and briefly explain the stages

Memory refers to the ability of a person to take in information, store it, process, and recall the information later in time. There are three stages of memory that include encoding, storage, and retrieval (McDermott, Kathleen and Henry). Encoding refers to the process by which the brain receives information, process, and combine it. Through encoding, information from the outside world is allowed to the senses in the form of chemical and physical stimuli and which requires processing. Storage is the second stage of memory and refers to the development of a permanent record of the encoded information, where it is maintained awaiting retrieval. Retrieval if the third stage and refers to the calling back of the information stored in the memory in order to be put in use.

2. What is flashbulb memory?

Flashbulb memories in psychology refer to the memories that occur after learning something so shocking or surprising that it develops a strong and seemingly very accurate memory of learning in regard to the event, but not the event itself (Hirst and Elizabeth). It can also be regarded as a snapshot of a moment and circumstances of surprising and consequential news that has just been learned about. For example, during the 9/11 attack, not everyone witnessed the incident, but some photographers took a snapshot that still reminds people of the event to date.

3. How do you study effectively to remember?

The human memory works through processing information and storing it. Reading for the purpose of remembering depends on the duration of retrieval, and this impacts on the types of memories that include sensory, short-term, and long-term memory. If a person is required to remember something after a few days, then they make use of short-term memory, which is also referred to as the working memory. However, if the information is required after a long duration, then the long-term and sensory memory is put into use. To ensure the effectiveness of the memory, even after an extended duration, a person is required to perform processes such as rehearsals (Oberauer). And which will ensure that the information is easily recalled even after an extended time as rehearsals work to train the brain.

Works Cited

Hirst, William, and Elizabeth A. Phelps. “Flashbulb memories.” Current Directions in Psychological Science 25.1 (2016): 36-41.

McDermott, Kathleen B., and Henry L. Roediger. “Memory (encoding, storage, retrieval).” General Psychology FA2018. Noba Project: Milwaukie, OR (2018): 117-153.

Oberauer, Klaus. “Is Rehearsal an Effective Maintenance Strategy for Working Memory?.” Trends in cognitive sciences (2019).