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Memory systems are essential for managing memories and retaining information that guides our everyday activities. In neuropsychology, understanding how these systems work helps identify deficits and create tailored interventions for each individual. Below, we’ll explore the main types of memory and how they are assessed.
What Are Memory Systems?
When we ask what memory systems are, the answer lies in the complex network of cognitive processes that allow us to encode, store, and retrieve information. These systems are classified based on the type of information processed and how it is stored, which affects their duration. From a psychological perspective, memory systems are central to understanding human functioning. They are closely linked to various cognitive domains such as learning, decision-making, and language. For this reason, identifying alterations in these systems is key for diagnosing conditions such as mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or brain injury.Types of Memory Systems in Psychology
In psychology, memory systems are categorized according to the type of information and the duration of storage. The main types include immediate memory, working memory, and source memory (a subtype of long-term memory). Let’s take a closer look at each of them.Immediate Memory
Immediate memory allows us to retain information for a very short time, from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the nature and complexity of the stimulus. This system is crucial for tasks like remembering a phone number just before dialing it. Its capacity is limited—typically between 5 and 9 items at a time, as established in Miller’s classic studies—though later research has shown that this can vary depending on context and task type.Working Memory
Often confused with short-term memory, working memory is more dynamic. It not only stores information temporarily but also manipulates it to perform tasks like solving math problems or planning actions. For example, we use it when calculating change during a purchase.Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory is responsible for storing information over extended periods, from days to a lifetime. It includes several subtypes:- Declarative (explicit) memory, which allows us to recall facts and concepts.
- Procedural (implicit) memory, related to skills and automatic habits.
- Source memory, which helps us remember the context in which a piece of information was acquired.
Cognitive Assessment and Stimulation of Memory
As we’ve seen, assessing memory systems is crucial in neuropsychology to detect possible deficits and develop effective intervention strategies. The most prominent methods include:- Computerized and Virtual Reality-Based Assessments
- Traditional Tests
References
Carrillo-Mora, P. (2010). Sistemas de memoria: reseña histórica, clasificación y conceptos actuales. Primera parte: Historia, taxonomía de la memoria, sistemas de memoria de largo plazo: la memoria semántica. Revista Mexicana de Psicología, 27(1), 37–52. https://www.scielo.org.mx/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0185-33252010000100010 Miller, G. A. (1956). The magical number seven, plus or minus two: Some limits on our capacity for processing information. Psychological Review, 63(2), 81–97. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0043158Are you interested in learning more?
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