Psychology Degree Cognitive Processes and Memory 2

Question 1

Which memory system is responsible for storing general knowledge about the world, such as the fact that Paris is the capital of France?

Accepted Answer

Semantic memory

Answer

Semantic memory stores factual, conceptual knowledge independent of personal experience or context.

Question 2

The 'levels of processing' framework proposed by Craik and Lockhart (1972) argues that memory retention depends on:

Accepted Answer

The depth of encoding (shallow vs. deep)

Answer

Deeper, more meaningful processing (semantic elaboration) produces stronger, longer-lasting memory traces than shallow phonetic or visual processing.

Question 3

A student can easily recall where she was when she heard about a major news event. This vivid, detailed memory is best described as a:

Accepted Answer

Flashbulb memory

Answer

Flashbulb memories are highly vivid, detailed recollections of the circumstances surrounding a surprising, emotionally significant event.

Question 4

Which concept describes the tendency for items at the beginning of a list to be recalled better than middle items?

Accepted Answer

Primacy effect

Answer

The primacy effect occurs because early list items have more time for elaborative rehearsal and transfer to long-term memory.

Question 5

Retrograde amnesia is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Loss of memories that were formed before a brain injury

Answer

Retrograde amnesia involves forgetting of events and information that existed prior to the onset of the injury or illness.

Psychology Degree Practice Test