A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What does the reconstructive memory hypothesis suggest?

1. Memories are always accurate reflections of events

2. Information gathered at the time of an event is unchangeable

3. Memories can be altered by subsequent information

4. Memories are completely distinct from knowledge

The correct answer is: Memories can be altered by subsequent information

The reconstructive memory hypothesis suggests that memories can be altered by subsequent information, which highlights the idea that memory is not a perfect reproduction of past events but rather a dynamic process. This means that when we recall memories, we may integrate new information or external influences, potentially leading to distortions in the original memory. The context in which the memory is recalled, additional details learned later, or suggestive questioning can all modify the way that the original memory is stored and retrieved. This concept is critical in understanding how eyewitness testimonies can be unreliable, as later information can introduce inaccuracies into what was initially remembered.