Скачать или смотреть MA Psychology Assignment MAPC1 Stage model of memory by Atkinson

Assignment MPC -001 

Describe the stage model of memory by Atkinson and Shiffrin. 


Answer :  Atkinson and Shiffrin proposed a model called the Multi-Store Model of Memory, which explains how information is processed and stored in our memory. According to them, memory works in three stages:

1. Sensory Memory

This is the first stage.

It takes in information from our senses (like sights, sounds, etc.).

But it holds the information for a very short time — just a few seconds or less.

If we pay attention to it, it moves to the next stage.


2. Short-Term Memory (STM)

This is the second stage.

Information we focus on enters short-term memory.

STM can hold only 5–9 items at a time (like a phone number).

It lasts for about 15–30 seconds unless we rehearse it (repeat it mentally).


3. Long-Term Memory (LTM)

This is the final stage.

If we rehearse or give meaning to information, it moves into long-term memory.

LTM can store unlimited information for a very long time, even for life.

Examples: remembering your birthday, your school, etc.


Summary

Sensory Memory: Brief, from senses.

Short-Term Memory: Limited and temporary.

Long-Term Memory: Large and lasting.

This model shows that memory is not just one single process, but a step-by-step system. It helped psychologists understand how we remember things — and why we forget.



Criticisms of Atkinson and Shiffrin’s Stage Model

While the Multi-Store Model was influential, it has received several criticisms:

1. Too Simplistic

It views memory as linear and passive, moving from one stage to another.

In reality, memory is more interactive and dynamic.

2. Overemphasis on Rehearsal

The model suggests that repetition (rehearsal) is the only way to transfer information into long-term memory.

But meaningful learning and emotional relevance also help us remember, even without rehearsal.

3. Ignores Types of Long-Term Memory

It treats long-term memory as a single store.

Later theories (like Tulving's) show that LTM has different types: episodic (events), semantic (facts), and procedural (skills).

4. Evidence from Brain Damage Cases

People with brain injuries (like patient KF) had damaged short-term memory but normal long-term memory, which challenges the model's strict stages.


Alternative/Suggestive Theories

Here are some other theories that developed later:

1. Working Memory Model (Baddeley & Hitch, 1974)

Replaced the idea of a single short-term memory.

Suggested STM has multiple components (like the phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad, and central executive).

Shows that we can process different types of information at the same time.

2. Levels of Processing Theory (Craik & Lockhart, 1972)

Focused on how deeply we process information, rather than where it's stored.

Deeper processing (like thinking about meaning) leads to better memory than shallow processing (like repeating words).

3. Tulving’s Model of Long-Term Memory

Divided LTM into episodic, semantic, and procedural.

This helped explain why we can forget facts but still remember how to do things.


Conclusion

The stage model was a foundational theory, introducing the idea that memory has multiple stores. However, it is now seen as too simple. Modern models like the working memory model and Tulving’s theory provide a more accurate and detailed explanation of how memory functions by considering different types of memories, processing levels, and brain mechanisms.