2.5 Storing Memories

Memory storage is a complex process involving different types of memory systems. Sensory memory briefly holds info from our senses, while short-term memory stores limited information for a short time. Long-term memory stores information for extended periods.

Rehearsal techniques help retain information. Maintenance rehearsal keeps info in short-term memory, while elaborative rehearsal transfers it to long-term memory. Some people have superior autobiographical memory, remembering personal events with remarkable accuracy.

Memory storage processes

Types of memory storage

Sensory memory serves as the initial gateway for information processing, capturing brief snapshots of sensory input. This system includes both iconic memory for visual information and echoic memory for auditory data.

Short-term memory (STM) acts as a temporary workspace with specific limitations:

• Holds approximately 7 ± 2 items
• Information typically lasts 15-30 seconds without rehearsal
• Includes working memory for active processing

Working memory is the brain's active processing center that:

• Coordinates attention through the central executive
• Uses the phonological loop for verbal information
• Employs the visuospatial sketchpad for visual and spatial processing

Long-term memory (LTM) serves as our permanent storage system and consists of:

• Declarative (explicit) memory
  • Semantic memory for facts
  • Episodic memory for events
• Nondeclarative (implicit) memory
  • Procedural memory for skills
  • Priming effects

Rehearsal techniques for retention

The brain uses two primary types of rehearsal to retain information. Maintenance rehearsal keeps information active in short-term memory through simple repetition, like repeating a phone number until it's dialed.

Maintenance rehearsal is the simpler form:

• Involves simple repetition (Like repeating a phone number)
• Keeps info in short-term memory

Elaborative rehearsal creates deeper connections:

• Links new info to existing knowledge
• Uses meaningful associations
• Employs strategies like:
  • Chunking
  • Mnemonic devices
  • Visual imagery
  • Personal connections

Superior autobiographical memory

Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM) represents a fascinating capacity of the human brain to store and recall personal experiences. Individuals with this ability can have enhanced recall of dates, weather, news events, or personal experiences.

Several factors influence autobiographical memory strength:

• Personal significance of the event
• Emotional intensity
• Self-reference effect
• Frequency of recall

Research suggests that HSAM may be linked to:

• Increased gray matter in memory-related brain regions
• Enhanced connectivity between memory networks
• Differences in information encoding and retrieval processes

Memory storage impairments

Memory impairments can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. Amnesia presents in two primary forms:

• Retrograde: loss of pre-existing memories
• Anterograde: inability to form new memories

Alzheimer's disease progressively impacts memory through:

1. Initial loss of recent memories
2. Gradual deterioration of older memories
3. Eventually affecting basic functions and skills

Infantile amnesia affects everyone's earliest memories:

• Most adults can't recall events before age 3-4
• Contributing factors include:
  • Brain development
  • Language acquisition
  • Formation of self-concept
  • Memory system maturation