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Memory for schema-relevant information: a meta-analytic resolution
1Faculteit der Psychologie, Universiteit van Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The British Journal of Social Psychology
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Memory recall favors schema-inconsistent information overall, but results vary by memory test type. This meta-analysis clarifies how processing variables influence memory for schema-relevant data.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Research on memory for schema-relevant information yields conflicting findings regarding schema-consistent versus schema-inconsistent information.
- Existing studies show contradictory results on whether memory favors consistent or inconsistent information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To resolve contradictory findings in memory for schema-relevant information through meta-analysis.
- To investigate moderators influencing memory selectivity for schema-consistent and schema-inconsistent information.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 60 independent studies, encompassing 165 comparative tests.
- Analysis of moderator variables, including memory test type, processing demands, exposure duration, and delay intervals.
Main Results:
- An overall slight memory advantage for schema-inconsistent information was found.
- Recognition tests corrected for guessing and recall tests favored schema-inconsistent information.
- Recognition tests uncorrected for guessing favored schema-consistent information.
- Several moderators, including processing demands and exposure length, significantly impacted inconsistency resolution, partially supporting the Wyer-Srull model.
Conclusions:
- Memory selectivity for schema-relevant information is contingent on the specific memory measure employed.
- Inconsistency resolution appears more robust than schema-bolstering under certain conditions, such as extended exposure and delays.
- Findings offer insights into stereotype change and memory processes.