As memories get older, they are most likely ________.
A) to get lost
B) to become stronger, more accurate, and more vivid
C) to be regarded as unreliable by the person using them
D) to become changed or altered in some fashion

Question

As memories get older, they are most likely ________.
A) to get lost
B) to become stronger, more accurate, and more vivid
C) to be regarded as unreliable by the person using them 
D) to become changed or altered in some fashion

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Memories are not like pictures or videos that can be stored and retrieved without any alteration. When we recall a memory, we reconstruct it in our mind, and this reconstruction can be influenced by our current mood, beliefs, and context. Hence, memories tend to be changed or altered in some fashion over time. This phenomenon is known as memory distortion or memory decay. Thus, option D is the best choice. Option A is incorrect because memories don't get lost per se; they may get harder to recall or more vague, but they don't disappear entirely. Option B is incorrect because, while some memories may become stronger or more vivid with rehearsing, most memories tend to fade or decay over time. Option C is partly correct because some people may doubt the accuracy of their memories or think they are unreliable, but others may have too much confidence in their memories and believe they are infallible.

As Memories Get Older, They Are Most Likely ________