Forgetting Curve

Definition

The forgetting curve is a hypothesis that describes the decrease in ability of the brain to retain memory over time. It suggests that information is lost over time when there is no attempt to retain it.

Related terms

Decay Theory:

This theory proposes that memory fades due to the mere passage of time unless we actively work to maintain it, much like what's suggested by the forgetting curve.

Interference Theory:

A theory suggesting that people forget not because memories are lost from storage but because other information gets in the way of what they want to remember.

Retrieval Failure Theory:

This theory suggests that forgetting occurs when we cannot access or retrieve previously stored memories, which aligns with aspects of the forgetting curve.