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Self-evaluation of memory systems: development of the questionnaire
Mirjana Tonković1, Andrea Vranić
1Department of Psychology, University of Zagreb, Croatia. mirjana.tonkovic@ffzg.hr
Aging & Mental Health
|May 13, 2011
Summary
The Self-evaluation of Memory Systems Questionnaire (SMSQ) is a new tool to measure metamemory, which is knowledge about memory. It shows good validity and reliability, distinguishing between different memory types and age groups.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Metamemory involves understanding one's own memory processes.
- The memory systems framework categorizes different types of memory.
- Existing tools may not fully capture the multidimensional nature of metamemory.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the Self-evaluation of Memory Systems Questionnaire (SMSQ).
- To assess metamemory based on the memory systems framework.
- To provide a multidimensional measure of metamemory.
Main Methods:
- Developed SMSQ on a large, diverse sample (N=3088) using web and paper forms.
- Utilized everyday situations and materials for broad applicability.
- Conducted content validity, factorial validity, reliability, and construct validity analyses.
Main Results:
- SMSQ demonstrated good psychometric properties.
- The questionnaire comprises six factors: subjective evaluation, episodic memory, semantic memory, memory for numbers, visuospatial memory, and reminder/aids.
- Age-related differences in metamemory were observed, aligning with existing research.
Conclusions:
- SMSQ is a brief, user-friendly, multidimensional metamemory questionnaire.
- It is grounded in memory systems theory and cognitive aging research.
- SMSQ is a valuable tool for research on memory and aging.
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