Cognitive review

What is the primary focus of the multistore model of memory?

• The interaction between short-term and long-term memory

• The process of encoding, storage, and retrieval

• The role of schemas in memory

• The influence of biases on memory

Answer explanation

The multistore model of memory primarily focuses on the processes of encoding, storage, and retrieval, illustrating how information moves between short-term and long-term memory.

Which component of the working memory model is responsible for verbal and auditory information?

• Central executive

• Phonological loop

• Visuospatial sketchpad

• Episodic buffer

Answer explanation

The phonological loop is the component of the working memory model that specifically handles verbal and auditory information, allowing us to process and store sounds and language.

Schema theory suggests that memory is influenced by:

• The accuracy of sensory input

• Pre-existing knowledge and expectations

• The duration of exposure to information

• The emotional state of the individual

Answer explanation

Schema theory posits that memory is shaped by pre-existing knowledge and expectations, meaning what we already know influences how we encode and recall new information.

The dual process model of thinking involves:

• Logical reasoning and emotional decision-making

• Fast, automatic thinking and slow, deliberate thinking

• Conscious and unconscious memory processes

• Visual and auditory processing

Answer explanation

The dual process model of thinking describes two systems: System 1, which is fast and automatic, and System 2, which is slow and deliberate. Thus, the correct choice is 'Fast, automatic thinking and slow, deliberate thinking'.

Anchoring bias refers to:

• The tendency to rely heavily on the first piece of information encountered

• The influence of recent experiences on decision-making

• The preference for familiar information

• The impact of emotional states on memory

Answer explanation

Anchoring bias is the tendency to rely heavily on the first piece of information encountered, which can skew decision-making. This makes the first impression or data point disproportionately influential.

The halo effect is best described as:

• The tendency to remember information that confirms existing beliefs

• The influence of a positive impression in one area on perceptions in other areas

• The distortion of memory due to misleading information

• The enhancement of memory for emotionally significant events

Answer explanation

The halo effect refers to how a positive impression in one area, such as someone's attractiveness, can influence perceptions in other areas, like their intelligence or kindness. This makes the second choice the correct answer.

Reconstructive memory suggests that:

• Memories are stored as exact replicas of experiences

• Memories are pieced together from various sources

• Memories are unaffected by external influences

• Memories are always accurate and reliable

Answer explanation

Reconstructive memory indicates that memories are not stored as exact replicas but are instead constructed from various sources, making the correct choice "Memories are pieced together from various sources."

Flashbulb memory is characterised by:

• The gradual fading of memories over time

• The vivid and detailed recall of significant events

• The distortion of memories due to external influences

• The inability to form new memories

Answer explanation

Flashbulb memory refers to the vivid and detailed recall of significant events, such as where you were during a major historical event. This contrasts with the gradual fading or distortion of less impactful memories.

The HM case study is significant because it demonstrated:

• The role of the hippocampus in forming new memories

• The impact of emotional trauma on memory

• The influence of social factors on memory

• The effect of ageing on memory

Answer explanation

The HM case study is significant as it highlighted the crucial role of the hippocampus in forming new memories, demonstrating that damage to this area can lead to severe memory impairments.

In the Loftus and Palmer (1974) study, what was the main finding regarding eyewitness testimony?

• Eyewitnesses are always accurate

• The wording of questions can influence memory recall

• Eyewitnesses are unaffected by leading questions

• Memory recall is not influenced by external factors

Answer explanation

The Loftus and Palmer (1974) study found that the wording of questions can significantly influence how eyewitnesses recall events, demonstrating that memory is not always reliable and can be altered by external factors.