A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What was a significant finding regarding the language used in Loftus and Palmer's study?

1. Language had no effect on memory recall

2. Language could distort memory recall

3. Participants were unaware of language effects

4. Memory recall improved with simpler language

The correct answer is: Language could distort memory recall

In Loftus and Palmer's study, a key finding was that language could indeed distort memory recall. The study showcased how the use of different verbs to describe a car accident—such as "smashed," "collided," or "bumped"—significantly influenced participants' memories and their subsequent responses when asked about the accident. For instance, participants who heard the term "smashed" were more likely to report seeing broken glass, even though there was none. This phenomenon highlights the malleability of memory and suggests that the way questions are phrased can shape or alter an individual's recollection of an event. Essentially, the study underscored the idea that memory is not a perfect playback of events but is instead susceptible to the influence of external cues, including language, thereby demonstrating the powerful role language plays in shaping our memories.