Module Outline

Module 23: Forgetting and Memory Construction

Module 23 explains how information is forgotten or misconstrued. The module begins with a review of the encoding, storage, and retrieval process described in Module 22.

Next, how encoding failures lead to forgetting is discussed. Ebbinghaus’s forgetting curve is used to explain storage failure in forgetting information.

Forgetting as retrieval failure is explained by centering on the interference effects of proactive and retroactive interference and how Freud’s concept of repression operates. The module concludes by discussing how memories can be altered, especially those of eye- witness testimonies and the memories of abused children.

Introduction to Forgetting and Memory Construction
	Encoding
	Storage
	Retrieval
Forgetting as Encoding Failure
Forgetting as Storage Failure
	Hermann Ebbinghaus
	The forgetting curve
	Permastore memory
Forgetting as Retrieval Failure
	Interference
	Proactive interference
	Retroactive interference
	Motivated forgetting
	Sigmund Freud
	Repression
Memory Construction
	Elizabeth Loftus
	Misinformation effect
	Children’s recall
	False memories
	Recovered memories