information-processing model

any conceptualization of memory as involving the progressive transfer of information through a system, much as a computer manipulates information in order to store, retrieve, and generate responses to it. The most popular model is that proposed in 1968 by U.S. cognitive psychologists Richard C. Atkinson and Richard M. Shiffrin (1942– ). Sometimes also referred to as the multistore model or the three-stage model, their theory views memory as a system with three distinct components—sensory memory, which collects and transforms material; short-term memory, which temporarily holds material; and long-term memory, which more permanently retains material and recalls it as needed—that sequentially process information through the stages of encoding, storage, and retrieval. Each component differs in how much material it can hold and for how long, as well as the mechanisms by which it operates. Control processes govern informational flow, memory search, output of responses, and so forth. Compare connectionist model.

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Psychology term of the day

December 22nd 2024

St. John’s wort

a perennial flowering plant, Hypericum perforatum, that has an extensive history of folk use, particularly as a sedative, a treatment for nerve pain and malaria, and a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites. It is currently a highly popular product used in the treatment of mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and insomnia. There is some research supporting its effectiveness for these purposes, but studies have not demonstrated the superiority of St. John’s wort over placebo in the management of major depression. There is also some research suggesting that the herb possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active agents are presumed to be hypericin and related compounds. Hypericin is known to exert some effects common to other antidepressants, such as inhibition of the reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. It may also exert some effects by modulating the neurotransmitters gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. The agent should be used with caution, as it may interact adversely with or limit the effectiveness of a number of other drugs, particularly those used to treat HIV/AIDS and cancer and to prevent transplant rejection. It may also lead to serotonin syndrome if taken with other serotonergic antidepressants. Taken on its own, its side effects are rare but may include dry mouth, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and fatigue.