Abstract

STEIN, Lilian Milnitsky  and  PERGHER, Giovanni Kuckartz. Creating False Memories in Adults using Word Associated Lists. Psicol. Reflex. Crit. [online]. 2001, vol.14, n.2, pp. 353-366. ISSN 0102-7972.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-79722001000200010.

We used the DRM paradigm, which consists of the presentation of lists of associated words to a nonpresented one. We investigated the effect of time of testing, memory persistent and a mere memory test on both true and false memories. In Experiment 1, false recognition rates were as high as true recognition both in the immediate and delayed test. True memories were more persistent than false memories. Experiment 2 produced higher true recognition rates than false recognition in the immediate test. That relation was the inverse one in the delayed test. Regarding the effect of a previous memory test on a delayed one, we observed both a true memory inoculation against forgetting and a false memory creation effect. In addition, false memories were as persistent as true memories. Findings were discussed in terms of fuzzy trace theory interpretations. Possible clinical and forensic implications of our results were also considered.

Keywords : False memories; word associated; fuzzy trace theory; cognitive psychology.