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Which of the following scenarios would most likely lead to the formation of a false memory?

A) Repeatedly hearing accurate information from multiple sources
B) Receiving consistent feedback about an event from reliable witnesses
C) Experiencing an emotionally neutral event with clear details
D) Engaging in suggestive or leading questioning about the event

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The most likely scenario to lead to the formation of a false memory is engaging in suggestive or leading questioning about the event, as suggestibility can manipulate and alter individual’s recollection of an event.

Step-by-step explanation:

Formation of False Memories:

The scenario that would most likely lead to the formation of a false memory is D) Engaging in suggestive or leading questioning about the event. The concept of suggestibility is a key factor in the creation of false memories; when an individual is subjected to suggestive questioning, it can result in the alteration of their memory of an event. Cognitive psychologist Elizabeth Loftus has done extensive research into how suggestibility and the misinformation effect can lead to inaccuracies in memory recall. For instance, in the experiments conducted by Loftus and Palmer, the use of different verbs influenced participants' perceptions of the speed of cars in an accident, demonstrating how memory can be manipulated by the wording of questions. This illustrates how memories can be reconstructed inaccurately, potentially leading to the recall of an event that didn't occur, or, at the very least, occurred differently than remembered.

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