Compare the two main theories of forgetting—decay theory and interference theory—and compare their research support

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Interference theory refers to forgetting that occurs because recall of certain information interferes with recall of other information. Retroactive interference (or retroactive inhibition) occurs when newly acquired knowledge impedes the recall of older material.

Proactive interference (or proactive inhibition) occurs when material that was learned in the past impedes the learning of new material.

Decay theory asserts that information is forgotten because of the gradual disappearance, rather than displacement, of the memory trace. Thus, decay theory views the original piece of information as gradually disappearing unless something is done to keep it intact. This view contrasts with interference theory, in which one or more pieces of information block recall of another.

Evidence exists for both interference and decay, at least in short-term memory. There is some evidence for decay, but the evidence for interference is much stronger. For now, we can assume that interference accounts for most of the forgetting in short-term memory. However, the extent to which the interference is retroactive, pro- active, or both is unclear. In addition, interference also affects material in long-term memory, leading to memory distortion.