The biological factors in memory loss

Full Answer Section

• Age: Normal aging can lead to decreased processing speed and memory capacity.
• Diseases: Alzheimer's, dementia, and stroke can significantly impact memory.
• Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in B vitamins and vitamin D can contribute to memory problems.

2. Levels of Processing Model:

This model proposes that memory is encoded at different depths based on processing:

• Shallow Processing: Focuses on physical features, leading to fragile memories.
• Deep Processing: Analyzes meaning and relationships, creating stronger memories.

3. Parallel Distributed Processing (PDP) Model:

This model suggests memories are stored in interconnected networks of neurons. Activation of specific patterns retrieves related memories.

4. Short-Term Memory (STM) vs. Working Memory:

• STM: Holds a limited amount of information for a brief period (seconds).
• Working Memory: Manipulates and integrates information from STM for complex tasks (limited capacity).

5. Varieties of Long-Term Memory (LTM) and Functions:

• Declarative Memory: Stores factual information (explicit memories).
  • Episodic Memory: Remembers specific events (autobiographical details).
  • Semantic Memory: Holds general knowledge and concepts.
• Procedural Memory: Stores skills and habits (implicit memories).

6. Theories of Forgetting:

• Decay Theory: Memories fade with time without rehearsal.
• Interference Theory: New information disrupts retrieval of existing memories.
• Retrieval Failure: Difficulty accessing memories due to a lack of proper cues.
• Motivated Forgetting: Repressing unpleasant or unwanted memories.
• Encoding Specificity: Difficulty recalling information if the retrieval context doesn't match the encoding context.

7. Key Factors in Forgetting:

• Time: Memories naturally decay over time without reinforcement.
• Lack of Rehearsal: Not actively reviewing information leads to forgetting.
• Interference: New or similar information can disrupt retrieval of older memories.
• Emotional State: Stress or anxiety can hinder memory encoding and retrieval.
• Depth of Processing: Shallowly processed information is forgotten faster.

8. False Memories vs. Repressed Memories:

• False Memories: Inaccurate memories created through imagination, suggestion, or misinformation.
• Repressed Memories: Traumatic events intentionally pushed out of conscious awareness. The validity of repressed memories is debated in psychology.

Sample Answer

Memory Maze: Understanding How We Forget

Here's a breakdown of the biological and psychological factors influencing memory:

1. Biological Factors in Memory Loss:

• Brain Structures: Damage or shrinkage of the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex can impair memory formation and retrieval.
• Neurotransmitters: Imbalances in dopamine, acetylcholine, and glutamate can affect memory consolidation and recall.