Question

Check your understanding of the various types of memory discussed in this chapter by matching the definitions below with the following: (a) sensory memory, (b) short-term memory, (c) long-term memory, (d) declarative memory, (e) nondeclarative memory, (f) episodic memory, (g) semantic memory, (h) retrospective memory, and (i) prospective memory. The answers can be found in Appendix A. A limited-capacity store that can maintain unrehearsed information for about 20 seconds.

Short answer

Based on the given definition, "A limited-capacity store that can maintain unrehearsed information for about 20 seconds," identify the correct memory type. Answer: (b) Short-term memory

Step-by-step solution

Identify the given definition

The given definition is "A limited-capacity store that can maintain unrehearsed information for about 20 seconds."

Review the memory types

Review the different types of memory: (a) Sensory memory: Memory that holds sensory information for a very brief period of time, usually less than a second. (b) Short-term memory: A limited-capacity memory system that can store information for brief periods of time, typically around 20 seconds without rehearsal. (c) Long-term memory: A memory system that can store vast amounts of information for extended periods of time, potentially a lifetime. (d) Declarative memory: Memory that can be consciously accessed and described, including facts and personal experiences. (e) Nondeclarative memory: Memory that cannot be consciously accessed but can influence behavior, such as skills and habits. (f) Episodic memory: Memory for specific events and experiences that can be consciously recalled. (g) Semantic memory: Memory for general world knowledge, facts, and concepts that can be consciously recalled. (h) Retrospective memory: Memory for past events, knowledge, or skills. (i) Prospective memory: Memory for future intentions and tasks to be performed.

Match the given definition with the correct memory type

The given definition matches with (b) Short-term memory because it is a limited-capacity store that can maintain unrehearsed information for about 20 seconds.

Key concepts

Short-term memory

Short-term memory is like the temporary clipboard of your mind. It holds information for a brief period, typically around 20 seconds, unless you actively try to remember it longer through rehearsal. For example, when you quickly remember a phone number just long enough to dial it, you're using short-term memory.
In essence, it's a limited workspace that allows us to manage and manipulate information temporarily. This capacity is crucial for tasks such as problem-solving and decision-making.

• Capacity: About 7 items, plus or minus 2.
• Duration: Around 20 to 30 seconds without rehearsal.
• Purpose: Manage and manipulate temporary information.

Short-term memory acts as a buffer, transferring critical information into long-term storage for permanent remembrance, or it can dissipate if not needed.

Declarative memory

Declarative memory is like the mental filing cabinet for things we consciously know and can explain. It consists of things you can declare, like facts and events, and is comprised of two key components: episodic and semantic memory. When you remember the time you learned to ride a bike or the capital of France, you are tapping into declarative memory.
This type of memory is crucial because it allows us to learn new information, recall past experiences, and navigate the world with knowledge.

• Access: Conscious and intentional.
• Includes: Facts and events.
• Subtypes: Episodic and Semantic memory.

Understanding declarative memory is essential for grasping how we process and retrieve lifelong memories.

Nondeclarative memory

Nondeclarative memory, often unnoticed, subtly influences our behavior by storing skills and habits. Unlike declarative memory, this type includes learned abilities that we perform automatically, like riding a bike or tying shoelaces.
It doesn't require conscious thought to retrieve, making it fundamentally different from declarative memory.

• Implicit: Unconscious retrieval.
• Types: Skills, habits, and conditioned responses.
• Influence: Directs actions without conscious awareness.

Recognizing nondeclarative memory helps us appreciate the power of practice and how repeated actions shape our abilities over time.

Episodic memory

Episodic memory allows us to travel back in time to specific moments in our lives. It's the conscious recollection of personal experiences, such as a memorable birthday party or your first day at school.
This form of memory provides a sense of personal history and continuity, enabling you to reflect on your life events.

• Focus: Personal experiences.
• Characteristics: Time and place details.
• Function: Facilitates the understanding of personal history.

By harnessing episodic memory, we create a narrative of our identity and endure a strong emotional connection with the past.

Semantic memory

Semantic memory is like a mental encyclopedia, storing our general knowledge about the world. It includes facts, concepts, and language meanings, such as knowing the names of colors or the process of photosynthesis.
This type of memory is constantly updated with new information and is essential for everyday functioning, academic performance, and comprehension.

• Content: Factual information and concepts.
• Nature: Independent of personal experiences.
• Role: Essential for language and comprehension.

Semantic memory allows us to learn, communicate, and apply knowledge effectively in various contexts.