Jessica took psychology in the fall semester and is now taking sociology. Several of the concepts are similar, and Jessica finds that she sometimes has trouble recalling some of the major psychological theorists. She keeps getting them confused with sociological theorists. Jessica's problem is most likely due to ________.
A) decoding failure
B) retroactive interference
C) proactive interference
D) Toronto syndrome

Question

Jessica took psychology in the fall semester and is now taking sociology. Several of the concepts are similar, and Jessica finds that she sometimes has trouble recalling some of the major psychological theorists. She keeps getting them confused with sociological theorists. Jessica's problem is most likely due to ________.
A) decoding failure
B) retroactive interference 
C) proactive interference 
D) Toronto syndrome

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Retroactive interference occurs when new information interferes with the recall of previously learned information. In this case, the new information from sociology is interfering with the recall of previously learned information from psychology, resulting in confusion between psychological and sociological theorists.

Jessica Took Psychology in the Fall Semester and Is Now