Question

In psychology, a limited-capacity memory system in which we actively "work" with information is known as:

a) Short-Term Memory
b) Sensory Memory
c) Long-Term Memory
d) Semantic Memory

Answer 1

Short-term memory (STM) is the limited-capacity memory system where we actively work with information, different from sensory and long-term memory, and is a crucial part of the working memory system.

Step-by-step explanation:

In psychology, a limited-capacity memory system in which we actively "work" with information is known as short-term memory (STM). Short-term memory is part of the working memory system, which acts as a kind of 'mental workspace' for processing and manipulating information. It differs from sensory memory, which only holds sensory information for a few seconds, and from long-term memory, which can store information indefinitely. Short-term memory allows us to retain and use a limited amount of information—around seven bits—for a brief period. Rehearsal of this information can lead to its transfer to long-term memory, where it can be stored permanently.

The Atkinson-Shiffrin model of memory posits that memory processing involves three stages: sensory memory, emory serving as a vital stage for the storage and manipulation of information before it may be encoded into long-term memory. While short-term memory is not synonymous with working memory, it is an essential component within the broader working memory system.