In several studies, participants were given a list of related words to learn, such as DREAM, AWAKE, REST, and TIRED. When later asked if they recognized the "theme" word (e.g., SLEEP), which had never been presented, it was found that they:
A) often falsely recognized the theme word.
B) usually correctly rejected the theme word.
C) falsely recognized the theme word but failed to recognize the studied words.
D) falsely recognized novel, unrelated words.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Participants often falsely recognize the theme word due to the associative nature of memory. The presented words are closely related to the theme word, leading participants to mistakenly believe the theme word was also presented.

In Several Studies, Participants Were Given a List of Related