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Partner-Provided Inferences Impact Memory.
Zoe Helena Fischer1, Matthew Reysen1, Savannah Kelly1
1University of Mississippi, USA.
Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology (2006)
|May 18, 2026
Summary
Collaborating with a partner can negatively impact memory accuracy, especially when the partner provides inferential information. High partner confidence further increases the likelihood of false memories, highlighting the influence of social factors on recollection.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Memory Studies
Background:
- Collective discourse influences memory accuracy.
- Partner-provided information can enhance or impair recollections.
- The impact of inferential information from partners on memory remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how partner-provided inferential information affects post-event memory accuracy.
- To examine the role of partner confidence in the acceptance of inferential information.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments involving participants reading stories and answering questions.
- Participants collaborated with partners who provided accurate and inferential details.
- Experiment 2 manipulated partner confidence levels.
Main Results:
- Participants were more prone to false recognition of inferences when provided by a partner.
- High partner confidence significantly increased false recognition of inferences compared to low confidence or solo work.
Conclusions:
- Partner collaboration, particularly with a confident partner, can decrease memory accuracy.
- Confidence may play a crucial role in the acceptance and integration of inferential information into memory.
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