Question 1: Define the term 'retrieval failure' and explain how it can lead to forgetting.

Answer: Retrieval failure occurs when information stored in memory cannot be accessed at the time of recall, often due to lack of appropriate retrieval cues, leading to forgetting.

Question 2: Describe the main idea behind the decay theory of forgetting.

Answer: Decay theory suggests that memories fade over time if they are not used, as the neural connections weaken naturally.

Question 3: Explain what is meant by 'interference' in the context of forgetting. Provide an example scenario.

Answer: Interference occurs when other memories interfere with the ability to recall a specific memory. For example, learning a new phone number may make it difficult to recall the previous one due to interference from the new information.

Question 4: Compare retroactive and proactive interference in your own words.

Answer: Retroactive interference happens when new information prevents recall of older memories, while proactive interference occurs when older memories hinder the learning and recall of new information.

Question 5: Discuss the concept of 'motivated forgetting' and give an example of a situation where this might occur.

Answer: Motivated forgetting is when individuals unconsciously forget painful or traumatic memories to protect themselves emotionally. For example, someone may forget details of a distressing event to reduce emotional pain.

Question 6: What role do retrieval cues play in the forgetting process? Support your answer with an example.

Answer: Retrieval cues are stimuli that help trigger the recall of a memory. For example, smelling a particular perfume might bring back memories of a specific person or event.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the difference between decay theory and interference theory of forgetting. Label the key features.

Answer: The diagram should show two separate processes: one depicting a fading memory trace over time for decay theory, and another illustrating overlapping memories causing confusion for interference theory.

Question 8: Describe a real-life situation where forgetting might be due to interference rather than decay.

Answer: Forgetting a friend's new phone number after learning multiple new numbers from other friends indicates interference, as recent similar information disrupts recall.

Question 9: Explain why forgetting can sometimes be beneficial, providing an example.

Answer: Forgetting can be beneficial by allowing individuals to move on from traumatic or unimportant events, reducing emotional distress. For example, forgetting minor daily annoyances helps maintain mental well-being.

Question 10: Suppose a student cannot recall their previous lesson's content. Which explanation of forgetting might best account for this? Justify your answer.

Answer: Retrieval failure might best account for this if the student has difficulty accessing the information due to lack of proper cues, despite the memory being stored.