AP Psychology : Memory
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Psychology
All AP Psychology Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1051 : Ap Psychology
What is the first stage of memory processing in the information-processing theory of memory?
Encoding
Storage
Retrieval
Rehearsal
Encoding
In the information processing theory of memory, "encoding" must precede both storage and retrieval. Rehearsal is only essential in short term memory, but also must follow encoding. The process of encoding is essential to transferring perception into memory, so it must occur first.
Example Question #1051 : Ap Psychology
Cameron experienced a traumatic car accident. After recovery, he is only able to remember things that happened before the accident and is completely unable to retain new memories. He is most likely suffering from which of the following?
Retroactive interference
Post traumatic stress disorder
Anterograde amnesia
Selective amnesia
Anterograde amnesia
"Anterograde amnesia" describes the condition in which an individual is unable to create or retain new memories following a specific incident. For Cameron, this specific moment is the car crash. It is where his long term memory ends and he loses the ability to add more information to this collection. He is unable to recall the recent past, in contrast with his vivid recollection of the time before the accident.
Example Question #1051 : Ap Psychology
Remembering the beginning contents of a long list is termed the __________________.
visual effect
naming effect
primacy effect
spatial effect
recency effect
primacy effect
The primacy effect and the recency effect are termed the "serial position effects". The primacy effect is a phenomenon that allows one to remember information better that is initially presented to them (e.g., the beginning contents of a long list). The recency effect refers to the ability to better recall information presented last (e.g., information presented at the end of a long list).
Example Question #1052 : Ap Psychology
What term is used to describe long term memory that is often factual in nature?
Episodic
Semantic
Procedural
Rehearsed
Declarative
Declarative
Declarative memory is also known as explicit memory. Declarative memory is a type of long term memory that can be recalled as facts of knowledge, usually in a verbatim manner. These types of memories can be consciously recalled.
Example Question #1053 : Ap Psychology
New memories and the retrieval of old memories are localized to which structure in the brain?
Cerebellum
Hippocampus
Wernicke's area
Occipital Lobe
Amygdala
Hippocampus
The hippocampus is a structure within the brain that encodes memories. When this structure is damaged it can lead to an inability to form and retrieve memories. The amygdala is the brain structure responsible for fear. The occipital lobe is responsible for processing visual input. Wernicke's area is important for speech and language. The cerebellum is responsible for movement and coordination.
Example Question #1054 : Ap Psychology
Walter decides that he would like to ride a bicycle. He has not used a bicycle in twenty years and wonders if he will remember how to do so. To his surprise he easily remembers how to ride. What type of memory allows Walter to ride a bicycle after twenty years?
Implicit memory
Episodic memory
Explicit memory
Eidetic memory
Semantic memory
Implicit memory
Implicit memory involves remembering how to complete tasks that do not require conscious effort. It is also sometimes called non-declarative memory. Remembering how to ride a bicycle or tie your shoes are examples of implicit memory. Explicit memory is memory for every day information. It is a conscious form of memory and requires effort. Semantic and episodic are forms of explicit memory. Semantic memory involves remembering specific facts, such as math formulas or the names of former presidents. Episodic memory refers to remembering past life events, such as your wedding day. Eidetic memory is also known as photographic memory and is a rare ability in some people to recall images and sounds after short exposure.
All AP Psychology Resources
