Explain why laboratory tests may inaccurately illustrate the everyday memory capacity of middle-aged and older adults.

What will be an ideal response?


Many laboratory tests of memory entail tasks that are similar to those encountered in school settings. Middle-aged and older adults may be less motivated by such tasks than younger adults who likely have more recent experience in school contexts. Laboratory findings, therefore, may not accurately illustrate the everyday memory capacity of middle-aged and older adults. For example, when the pace of a memory task is slowed, or participants are reminded to use organization or elaboration strategies, middle-aged and older adults show better performance. In addition, the type of task influences performance. For example, in one study, adults aged 19-68 completed memory tests under two conditions: a pressured classroom-like condition and a self-paced condition. When participants were shown a video and tested immediately (classroom-like condition), younger adults showed better recall than did the middle-aged adults. However, when participants were given a packet of information and a video to study on their own (self-paced condition), young and midlife adults did not differ on recall 3 days later. The midlife adults performed better when they could apply their own strategies and memorize the material at their own pace.

Psychology

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Psychology

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A) Birth control pills B) Condoms C) Diaphragms D) Withdrawal

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Psychology

The cell bodies of most serotonin neurons are located within the __________.

A. nucleus accumbens B. reticular formation C. raphe nuclei D. striatum

Psychology