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Reversing the phonological similarity effect
1Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1364, USA. nairne@psych.purdue.edu
Memory & Cognition
|March 24, 1999
Summary
The phonological similarity effect in short-term memory can reverse after distraction, improving order retention for similar-sounding items. This occurs when different items are used each trial, suggesting a discrimination-based memory process.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Memory Research
Background:
- The phonological similarity effect is a well-established finding in short-term memory research.
- This effect typically demonstrates poorer order retention for lists of similar-sounding items.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the conditions under which the phonological similarity effect might be reversed.
- To explore the role of item distinctiveness and distraction in short-term memory order recall.
Main Methods:
- Three experiments were conducted manipulating item similarity, item distinctiveness across trials, and retention intervals.
- Participants completed short-term memory tasks involving ordered recall of item lists.
Main Results:
- Experiments 1 and 2 showed a reversal of the phonological similarity effect after brief distraction when unique items were used per trial, improving order retention for similar lists.
- Experiment 3, using the same items across trials, replicated the standard phonological similarity effect, with poorer performance for similar lists.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that the phonological similarity effect is not absolute and can be modulated by factors like item discrimination and post-list distraction.
- Results support a general discrimination framework where items are represented in a multidimensional space, influencing memory performance based on list and within-list dimensions.
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