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Tip-of-the-tongue states predict enhanced feedback processing and subsequent memory
Paul A Bloom1, David Friedman1, Judy Xu1
1Columbia University, Department of Psychology, Schermerhorn Hall #406, 1190 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY, USA.
Consciousness and Cognition
|June 12, 2018
Summary
Experiencing a tip-of-the-tongue (TOT) state enhances memory recall when receiving correct feedback. This neurocognitive response suggests curiosity drives better learning of new information.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Memory Research
Background:
- The tip-of-the-tongue (TOT) phenomenon is a common subjective feeling of knowing information that cannot be retrieved.
- Understanding the neurocognitive underpinnings of TOT states and their impact on memory is crucial for cognitive science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the TOT state, event-related potentials (ERPs), and subsequent memory recall.
- To explore the neurocognitive processing of feedback during TOT states versus states of not knowing.
Main Methods:
- Utilized ERPs to measure brain activity in response to correct feedback for general information questions.
- Participants indicated TOT state presence before receiving correct answers.
- Analyzed ERPs for differences between TOT and non-TOT conditions.
Main Results:
- Feedback during a TOT state elicited enhanced centro-parietal positivity (250-700 ms post-feedback) compared to non-TOT states.
- This enhanced positivity mediated a positive association between TOT states and later memory recall.
- The findings suggest that information acquired during TOT states is processed more effectively.
Conclusions:
- Information received during TOT states leads to enhanced learning, potentially driven by curiosity.
- While increased semantic access during TOT states is possible, enhanced processing is a key factor in improved memory.
- This study provides neurocognitive evidence for the impact of subjective memory states on learning.
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