Long-Term Memory and the Effects on the Individual

Erickson Kintsch Argument

Erickson and Kintsch Argument

In the world of psychology, there are number of theories which are used to understand the impact of various events and stimuli on long-term memory. Each one discusses these transformations and the lasting impacts on everyone. To fully understand what is taking place requires focusing on the ideas from: Cui, Kelley & Lavie and Ericsson & Kintsch. This will be accomplished by examining their overlapping methods and then designing an experimental approach. Together, these different variables will determine which approach is the most effective and the best ways for measuring them.

Cui (2012) determined that NMDA receptors in the brain will have an impact on long-term memory. This is taking place with genetics influencing their ability to function and maintain high levels throughout a person's life. When someone becomes older, this will affect the ability to analyze events and their meaning. This shapes how the person sees themselves and the way they react to the world around them. As a result, Cui determined that depending upon the functionality of these receptors, they can have an impact on someone's ability to understand and recall key concepts over the long-term. (Cui, 2012)

Kelley (2012) determined that long-term memory recall is dependent upon the brain's visual cortex. This is where the ability to separate and sort stimuli is achieved. What makes it so unique, is the way the information is presented to the subject. According to Kelley, the most effective approach is when someone is responding to response - neutral techniques. In this case, the way images and ideas are presented will have an effect of the person's capacity to understand, apply and utilize them regularly. These concepts are supporting the ideas presented by Cui. This is occurring through showing how the brain will process and recall critical information. In this case, Cui is discussing a specific part of it (i.e. receptors). While Kelley, is looking at a larger portion and the role these receptors will play in memory recall. This is demonstrating how the two are using overlapping methods to have a better idea as to how the mind works and the way it influences memory. (Kelley, 2012)

Ericsson & Kintsch (1995) determined that long-term memory is impacted by short-term stimuli and mind's ability to recall critical tasks. This means that more times someone is exposed to something, the better they at continuing with specific tasks (later on). These insights are important, as they are used as foundation by Kelley and Cui to understand the mind's ability to categorize stimuli. They are different with the two studies building upon the conclusions from Ericsson & Kintsch. (Ericsson & Kintsch, 1995)

To quantify and expand upon these findings, it is imperative to conduct an independent study. The basic theory is utilizing the qualitative approach. This is when various sources are examined in comparison with each other to understand the underlying trends. The main idea is to provide a foundation of the problem. Then, compare the findings with each other through looking at the different conclusions from various resources. This will offer new ideas and insights to understand the benefits and drawbacks of these different techniques for improving memory recall