Reconstructive memory is a cognitive psychology concept that posits memory as an active reconstruction of events, influenced by schemas. Frederic Bartlett's theory suggests that our recollections are shaped by perception, imagination, and knowledge, leading to potential inaccuracies. Empirical studies by researchers like Loftus and Palmer support this theory, which has practical applications in legal and therapeutic settings.
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Reconstructive memory is the process of actively reconstructing past events, as opposed to a static playback of experiences
Perception, Imagination, and Existing Knowledge
Our memories are shaped and influenced by cognitive factors such as perception, imagination, and our existing knowledge
Schemas
Schemas, or cognitive frameworks, assist in organizing and interpreting information, influencing our recollection of events
Assimilation and Accommodation
During memory recall, new experiences can be assimilated into existing schemas or memories can be accommodated to align with schemas
Levelling and Sharpening
Accommodation can involve simplifying complex details (levelling) or enhancing/inventing details to fit with schemas (sharpening)
Bartlett's study demonstrated how participants altered a story from a different culture to fit their own cultural understanding, supporting the idea of reconstructive memory
This study showed how racial stereotypes can influence memory over successive retellings, providing further evidence for the malleability of memory
This study revealed how the phrasing of questions can influence participants' memories of an event, highlighting the impact of schemas on memory
Understanding the influence of schemas on memory has led to changes in the handling of eyewitness testimonies in the legal system
Leveraging intact schemas can be beneficial in treating memory disorders such as amnesia or dementia
The compatibility of reconstructive memory theory with semantic memory theory further supports the concept of schemas influencing memory
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In ______, Frederic Bartlett proposed that memories are influenced by factors like perception and existing knowledge.
1932
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A ______ is a cognitive structure that helps us organize and interpret information, impacting how we remember events.
schema
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Role of confabulation in memory recall
Confabulation fills in missing memory details, influenced by existing schemas.
