You have a distinct memory (memory trace) of falling off a slide when you were a child. You find this memory is getting more distant, and less vivid in your mind. What is most likely responsible for this change?
A) You memory is deteriorating due to the passage of time.
B) The memory is weakening due to interference from events that took place before and/or after the formation of your memory of falling off the slide.
C) The trauma of falling off the slide has caused you to forget it over time.
D) You don't recall this memory often enough for it to remain vivid.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The memory is weakening due to interference from events that took place before and/or after the formation of the memory. As time passes, other memories and experiences can interfere with the original memory, causing it to become less vivid. This is known as retroactive and proactive interference. The trauma of the event is not necessarily related to the fading of the memory, and not recalling the memory often enough may contribute, but interference is the most likely primary cause.

You Have a Distinct Memory (Memory Trace) of Falling Off