Priming and human memory systems

Article Abstract:

Human memory consists of a number of systems and subsystems. There are three broad categories of memory. Procedural memory involves changes in behavior, including skilled performance and response to stimuli. Semantic memory involves use of factual knowledge. Episodic memory is that with which people remember their personal experiences. There is evidence for a fourth category of memory known as the perceptual representation system (PRS), or priming, which involves the improved identification of perceptual or sensory objects. Some properties of PRS include: it is involved in the identification of perceptual objects, including words; it does not depend on the same brain centers as episodic and semantic memory; PRS develops at an early age and is still present late in life; it is primarily unconscious; it is not affected by drugs that affect other types of memory. Like other types of memory, however, priming improves with repetition and forgetfulness occurs over time. Evidence that priming is a type of memory can be seen in amnesic patients, who have severe impairment of other types of memory. Also observable is a dissociation between priming, which occurs to the same degree in three-year-old children and young adults, and recognition memory, which increases with age in children. The categorization of different systems of memory allows the understanding of memory processes and mechanisms. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Central nervous system

---

Memory and awareness

Article Abstract:

Researchers have begun to uncover the brain systems underlying explicit and implicit memory. Amnesiacs, who have selective damage in the inner regions of the temporal lobes, have poor capability for explicit memory, as exhibited in tests requiring recollection or recognition of information.

Physiological aspects, Awareness

---

Remembrance of Things Past

Article Abstract:

Little is understood about where and when memories are formed in the brain. Studies of brain-injured amnesic patients cannot determine how brain damage effects the saving and retrieval of memories. A recent study suggests that the medial temporal lobe plays a significant role.

United States, Neurology

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Interplanetary cruise. Descent and ascent. How to go to Mars
• Abstracts: DOE and EPA embrace green power. The wind at the end of the tunnel
• Abstracts: High-tech highway. Wind turbine shaken on world's first outdoor table. Road Test
• Abstracts: Protecting New Orleans. Treading water. Drowning New Orleans
• Abstracts: Generation of cyclic stress-strain curves for sheet metals. Material properties of aluminum alloy for accurate draw-bend simulation

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.