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An investigation of everyday prospective memory
R L Marsh1, J L Hicks, J D Landau
1Department of Psychology, University of Georgia, Athens 30602-3013, USA. marsh@meme.psy.uga.edu
Memory & Cognition
|August 14, 1998
Summary
Successful prospective memory, or remembering planned activities, depends on more than just memory. Cognitive capacities like metamemory, attention, and planning are crucial for everyday remembering.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Prospective memory is essential for daily functioning.
- Previous research often focused narrowly on memory recall.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cognitive processes underlying successful prospective memory.
- To demonstrate that prospective remembering involves multiple cognitive capacities beyond simple recall.
Main Methods:
- A naturalistic paradigm was employed across three experiments.
- A total of 405 participants were involved in the study.
Main Results:
- Successful prospective remembering is influenced by factors beyond basic memory.
- Metamemory, attentional capacities, and planning abilities significantly impact prospective memory performance.
- Individual differences in cognitive capacities play a key role.
Conclusions:
- Understanding prospective memory requires a multidimensional approach.
- Future research must consider a complex interplay of cognitive factors.
- Cognitive capacities are critical for accomplishing planned intentions.