Why We Made This:
Memory is a fundamental topic in cognitive psychology. Yet, many folks find the subject difficult to organize—especially when trying to differentiate types of memory (explicit vs. implicit), make sense of sensory and working memory, or apply concepts like priming, habituation, and the reminiscence bump. We created this PDF to simplify complex memory processes, making them easier to understand, visualize, and retain. With real-world examples, simplified definitions, and clear distinctions between memory types and lifespan changes, this PDF provides a well-structured learning experience designed to boost both comprehension and recall.
 
Learning Objectives:
Understand the different systems of memory, including sensory, short-term, and long-term memory.
Describe the functions and features of haptic, echoic, and iconic memory within the sensory system.
Differentiate between explicit (episodic and semantic) and implicit (procedural, associative, non-associative, and priming) memory.
Explain working memory’s role in holding and manipulating information for short periods.
Identify and describe examples of procedural, associative, and non-associative learning processes.
Distinguish between sensitization and habituation, and how they affect behavioral responses to repeated stimuli.
Define and apply the concept of priming, explaining how previous exposure influences subsequent responses.
Examine how memory changes across the lifespan, including phenomena such as infantile amnesia, the reminiscence bump, and age-related decline.