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Retrieval practice protects memory against acute stress
Amy M Smith1, Victoria A Floerke2, Ayanna K Thomas2
1Tufts University, 490 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155, USA. amy.smith@tufts.edu.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 26, 2016
Summary
Retrieval practice, a learning technique involving practice tests, can strengthen memory against acute stress. This method makes memory retrieval immune to the impairing effects of stress, unlike simple restudying.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive psychology
- Neuroscience of stress
- Learning and memory
Background:
- Acute stress is known to impair memory retrieval.
- The impact of stress on memory can depend on memory strength.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if retrieval practice can enhance memory resilience against acute stress.
- To determine if learning techniques influence stress effects on memory.
Main Methods:
- Participants learned information via restudying or retrieval practice.
- Stress was induced 24 hours after learning.
- Memory performance was assessed post-stress induction.
Main Results:
- Restudying led to typical stress-induced memory impairment.
- Retrieval practice protected memory recall from stress effects.
- Memory retrieval was unaffected by stress in the retrieval practice group.
Conclusions:
- The strength of memory representations, enhanced by retrieval practice, can confer immunity to stress-induced memory impairment.
- Learning strategies play a critical role in modulating the effects of stress on memory retrieval.
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