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Updated: May 15, 2026
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A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
Published on: July 16, 2015
Interference resolution in retrieval-induced forgetting: behavioral evidence for a nonmonotonic relationship between
Attila Keresztes1, Mihály Racsmány
1Department of Cognitive Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary. akeresztes@cogsci.bme.hu
Memory & Cognition
|December 25, 2012
Summary
Retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF) occurs when recalling memories makes related ones less accessible. This study found RIF happens only with moderate interference, suggesting low or extreme interference levels may prevent memory interference resolution.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Memory Research
Background:
- Retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF) describes how retrieving specific memories can impair recall of related memories.
- RIF is often attributed to interference resolution processes during memory retrieval.
- Previous research explored different theoretical accounts of RIF, but the precise relationship between interference levels and RIF remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically investigate the relationship between the level of interference during competitive retrieval and the occurrence of retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF).
- To introduce a novel experimental design for assessing interference by measuring target recall reaction times (RTs).
Main Methods:
- Developed a paradigm to measure interference during competitive memory retrieval using recall reaction times (RTs).
- Manipulated interference levels during memory retrieval tasks.
- Observed the occurrence and magnitude of retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF) across different interference conditions.
Main Results:
- Retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF) was observed exclusively when participants experienced moderate levels of interference during retrieval.
- No significant RIF was found when interference levels were very low.
- RIF was also absent or diminished at extremely high levels of interference.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that interference resolution, leading to RIF, is triggered only within a specific range of interference.
- Low interference may be insufficient to activate forgetting mechanisms.
- Excessively high interference might impede or disrupt the interference resolution process, thus preventing RIF.
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