Question

without rehearsal or repetition, memory connections will start to fade.

this is reflective of ______.

a.) retrieval failure
b.) repression
c.) suppression
d.) decay theory

Explanation:

Analyze the core statement

The prompt states: "Without rehearsal or repetition, memory connections will start to fade." This describes the gradual loss or fading of a memory trace over time when it is not actively maintained or recalled.

Evaluate the options

• a.) retrieval failure: This refers to the inability to access stored information, often due to a lack of retrieval cues, even though the memory trace itself still exists.
• b.) repression: A psychoanalytic defense mechanism where painful or unacceptable thoughts are unconsciously blocked from conscious awareness.
• c.) suppression: A conscious, deliberate effort to push unwanted thoughts or memories out of awareness.
• d.) decay theory: This theory proposes that physical memory traces (engrams) in the brain naturally fade, erode, or decay over time if they are not reinforced through rehearsal or repetition.

Select the correct match

The description of memory connections starting to "fade" directly aligns with the definition of decay theory.

Answer:

• a.) retrieval failure
• b.) repression
• c.) suppression
• d.) decay theory (Correct answer)