Question

an exceptionally clear recollection of an important event, such as 9/11, is a __________.

engram
arousal memory
sensory memory
flashbulb memory

Explanation:

Analyze the question stem

The question asks for the term that describes an exceptionally clear, vivid, and detailed recollection of an important, emotionally significant event, such as the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 (9/11).

Evaluate the options

• engram: A physical or biochemical change in the brain that represents a memory trace. It is a general biological term for how memories are stored, not a specific type of vivid memory for historic events.
• arousal memory: While emotional arousal plays a key role in strengthening memories (often explained by arousal theory), "arousal memory" is not a standard psychological term for this specific phenomenon.
• sensory memory: The earliest stage of memory where sensory information from the environment is stored for a very brief period (usually less than a second to a few seconds).
• flashbulb memory: A highly detailed, exceptionally vivid 'snapshot' of the moment and circumstances in which a piece of surprising and consequential (or emotionally arousing) news was heard. Common examples include remembering exactly where one was during 9/11 or the assassination of JFK.

Determine the correct answer

The definition provided in the prompt perfectly matches the psychological concept of a flashbulb memory.

Answer:

• engram
• arousal memory
• sensory memory
• flashbulb memory (Correct answer)