Contemporary research has found that memory is much more than the process for recalling information that has been learned and retained-it is a rich, nuanced process that is an important part of every human activity. This highly readable foundational text provides an overview of the theories and research on human memory from a psychological perspective. Grounded in the premise that all psychological processes depend on memory, and that memory is shaped by the functions it serves, the authors look at a wide range of memory processes and discuss the major theories that have been developed to explain how it functions. This book describes the major structural and functional theories that guide our understanding of memory. The authors then focus on everyday functions of memory, including memorizing things, remembering to do things (prospective memory), and recalling how to do things, such as skills, procedures, and navigation. Disorders of memory including Alzheimer's and amnesia are examined along with exceptional memory skills, such as the phenomenon of individuals with highly superior autobiographical memory. The book also addresses the intriguing and controversial topics of repressed and recovered memories, the validity of memory in courtroom testimony, and the effects of remembering traumatic events. Illustrative examples, metaphors, and humor make for a text that is engaging and entertaining, resulting in a valuable, concise introduction for students. Key Features: • Provides a concise, easy-to-read, yet scientifically based survey of theory and current research on memory • Grounded in the concept that memory is foundational to all psychological processes and human experience • Covers controversial and intriguing topics including repressed and recovered memories, memory in legal testimony, amnesia, and the phenomenon of super memory • Explores the myths and realities surrounding memory loss Contents: Acknowledgments Share Memory 101 Chapter 1 Everything Is Memory Chapter 2 Nuts and Bolts: The Basics of Your Memory Chapter 3 Memory Illusions Chapter 4 Who Done It? Memory and Eyewitness Identification Chapter 5 Remembering to Take the Cupcakes Out of the Oven: Prospective Memory Chapter 6 That's the Story of My Life: The Autobiographical Memory System Chapter 7 Frozen in Time: Traumatic Memories Chapter 8 Memory Loss: Amnesia and Other Memory Disorders Chapter 9 Memory Is Everything: Having Superior Memory Index About the Authors: James Michael Lampinen, PhD, is the youngest of six siblings (Sharon, Linda, John, Judi, Joe). He was born a bit north of Chicago. From a young age, he was interested in science. He received his bachelor's degree in psychology from Elmhurst College and his PhD in cognitive psychology from Northwestern University. He also did a stint as David G. Payne's post doc at Binghamton University. He is currently professor and associate chair in the Department of Psychological Science at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. His work focuses on memory errors and their applications to legal contexts. This includes eyewitness testimony, memory illusions, and searches for missing or wanted persons (prospective person memory). Jim lives in Fayetteville and is married to Jamie Lampinen. They are raising three children and a dog and are busy making lots of memories together, as evident from the ever-expanding magnet collection on their refrigerator. Denise R. Beike, PhD, is a would-be novelist who discovered psychological science along the way and never looked back. She received her bachelor's degree in English and psychology from Indiana University and her PhD in social psychology from Indiana University. She is currently professor and chair of the Department of Psychological Science at the University of Arkansas. Her research interests include the effects of autobiographical remembering on emotions, the self-concept, relationships, and behavior (it affects all of them-see Chapter 6!). She also studies the emotional experiences of regret and missing someone, both of which involve memory. She is the author of various articles and book chapters on these topics, but her proudest accomplishment is her students' success. The Psych 101 Series Short, reader-friendly introductions to cutting-edge topics in psychology. With key concepts, controversial topics, and fascinating accounts of up-to-the-minute research, The Psych 101 Series is a valuable resource for all students of psychology and anyone interested in the field.
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