DRM Effect: False Memories or False Responses

Abstract

Memory can be a tricky thing. The reconstructive nature of memory can lead to many problems. These problems are discussed in the context of the conflict over recovered memories of sexual abuse. The DRM paradigm is introduced and used to explore false memories. The current experiment modifies the typical DRM experiment by introducing a condition where the prototype is shown. Subjects were able to distinguish between prototypes shown and not shown as well as any other word type, however, they were biased strongly towards reporting that a prototype was old. There are two different interpretations of these results that are discussed and possible avenues to clarify the issue are suggested.