Is memory reliable?

P.E.E.P

What memory is/ stance on question.  Memory is a complex psychological construct, that can generally be seen as the storage and retrieval of information. Memory can be broadly conceptualised into short and long term memory, and is largely assumed to align to Atkinson and Schiffrin’s (1968) multistore model of memory. 

Example of a study showing memory not reliable. Loftus and Palmer (1974), estimating car speed key findings. 

Explain findings/keywords. This would suggest that memory is reconstructive, and not always an exact account of events. This means that in the courtroom one may not be able to rely on eyewitness testimony alone. 

Something exciting/new. E.g. age affecting, Ebbinghaus forgetting curve, Cognitive interview, Black Mirror

MF
Answered by Meg F. Psychology tutor

4011 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

John is in his twenties and has a phobia of animals ever since he was bitten by a dog in his teenage years. Seeing pets causes John extreme anxiety and he goes out his way to avoid contact with animals. How might Behaviourism explain John's phobia?


What's the best structure for an essay?


What is the difference between compliance and internalisation?


How can mental disorders be defined?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning