Psychologists Megan Sumeracki and Althea Need Kaminske have published a book entitled The Psychology of Memory, which aims to educate individuals on memory and techniques to enhance it. The book emphasizes that memory should not be viewed as a recording device, but rather as a “Wiki page” that can be edited and changed. Understanding memory is essential, as forgetting certain details is normal, and memory is influenced by various factors such as alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, and sleep patterns.
The authors explain that individuals may mistakenly believe they have a poor memory when they frequently lose or misplace items like keys and phones. Memory systems are not designed to remember everyday items, but rather information that is relevant to survival scenarios. Therefore, being aware of the factors that influence memory can help individuals accurately assess their memory capabilities. In real-life scenarios, a lack of understanding of memory could have significant consequences, such as affecting jury verdicts if victims of crimes are not fully believed due to memory lapses.
To improve memory in day-to-day life, the authors suggest using techniques like retrieval practice, which involves recalling facts from memory. For instance, learning someone’s name by using it regularly can help improve long-term memory. Visual and auditory techniques can also aid in training memory skills, such as creating mental associations for items like cards in a deck. Deliberate practice, which involves purposeful and intentional attention, is essential for becoming an expert in a particular field of learning.
Overall, understanding how memory works and implementing strategies to enhance memory can benefit individuals in various aspects of life, from remembering small details to becoming an expert in a specific field. By dispelling misconceptions about memory and providing practical techniques for improvement, psychologists like Sumeracki and Kaminske are helping individuals develop better memory skills and make informed decisions based on accurate memory assessments.
