Which of the following statements about flashbulb memories is/are true? 1. Flashbulb memories are vivid memories of emotional events. 2. Despite their emotional nature, flashbulb memories are highly inaccurate for everyone. 3. Because of their emotional nature, flashbulb memories are highly accurate. Statements #1 & #2 are true. Only statement #3 is true. Only statement #1 is true. Only statement #2 is true. The defining feature of an explicit memory is that: explicit memory always forms without having to consciously try to create it. An explicit memory comes with conscious recall of the fact that you have the memory. None of the other statements about explicit memory is correct. You must consciously try and exert effort in order to create an explicit memory in the first place. Memory researchers consider the term “working memory” more useful and appropriate today because it: clarifies the idea of short-term memory by focusing on space, time, and frequency; splits short-term memory in two types: implicit and explicit memory; clarifies the idea of short-term memory by focusing on the active processing that occurs during this stage; splits short-term memory into two substages – sensory memory and iconic memory.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answers:
- Flashbulb memory question:
✅ Only statement #1 is true. - Explicit memory question:
✅ An explicit memory comes with conscious recall of the fact that you have the memory. - Working memory question:
✅ Clarifies the idea of short-term memory by focusing on the active processing that occurs during this stage.
Detailed Explanation (300+ words):
1. Flashbulb Memories:
Flashbulb memories are vivid, detailed recollections of significant and emotionally charged events (e.g., 9/11, a wedding, or a traumatic event). Statement #1 is accurate — these memories often feel photographic or permanently imprinted because of the emotional intensity surrounding the event.
However, statement #2 is false because flashbulb memories are not universally inaccurate. While research shows they are not immune to distortion or decay over time — meaning people often feel confident about their accuracy even when the details are wrong — this doesn’t mean they are highly inaccurate for everyone.
Statement #3 is also false because the emotional nature of the memory does not guarantee accuracy. In fact, research (e.g., Talarico & Rubin, 2003) shows that while people have high confidence in their flashbulb memories, their actual accuracy often fades just like other types of memories.
Thus, only statement #1 is correct.
2. Explicit Memory:
Explicit (or declarative) memory refers to memories we consciously recall, such as facts (semantic memory) and personal experiences (episodic memory). The defining characteristic is conscious awareness — you know you’re remembering something.
The correct answer is: “An explicit memory comes with conscious recall of the fact that you have the memory.” This is the hallmark of explicit memory. The other options are inaccurate because:
- Some explicit memories form passively, not always with effort.
- Conscious recall distinguishes explicit from implicit memory (which does not involve conscious awareness).
3. Working Memory:
The term “working memory” has replaced the older term “short-term memory” in much of psychological research because it emphasizes the active, conscious manipulation of information, not just its temporary storage.
Working memory involves managing and updating information in real time — for example, solving math in your head or holding a phone number long enough to dial it. Therefore, the correct answer is:
“Clarifies the idea of short-term memory by focusing on the active processing that occurs during this stage.”