Multi-Store Memory Model: Atkinson And Shiffrin | Psychology for UPSC Optional (Notes) PDF Download

Introduction

The Multi-Store Model of memory, proposed by Richard Atkinson and Richard Shiffrin in 1968, provides an explanation of how memory functions. This model suggests that memory consists of three distinct stores: sensory memory, short-term memory (STM), and long-term memory (LTM). These stores differ in terms of encoding, capacity, and duration. The Multi-Store Model has been influential in understanding memory processes and has generated significant research in the field.

The Memory Stores

The Multi-Store Model posits that each memory store operates as a separate entity, with unique characteristics and functions.

Sensory Memory

• Duration: ¼ to ½ second
• Capacity: All sensory experience
• Encoding: Sense-specific (e.g., different stores for each sense)

The sensory memory store captures a fleeting impression of sensory stimuli from the five senses (sight, sound, touch, etc.). Although it has a large capacity, the duration of sensory memory is very brief. Information in the sensory memory store is mainly lost through decay.

Short-Term Memory (STM)

• Duration: 0-18 seconds
• Capacity: 7 +/- 2 items
• Encoding: Mainly auditory

The short-term memory store retains information for a short duration, typically up to 30 seconds. It has a limited capacity of about 7 +/- 2 chunks of information. STM predominantly encodes information acoustically. Information in STM is lost through displacement or decay. Maintenance rehearsal, such as mentally repeating information, can extend the duration of STM beyond 30 seconds.

Long-Term Memory (LTM)

• Duration: Unlimited
• Capacity: Unlimited
• Encoding: Mainly semantic (can also be visual and auditory)

The long-term memory store has an unlimited capacity and duration. It encodes information semantically, allowing for the storage of vast amounts of knowledge and experiences. Information from LTM can be retrieved back into STM when needed. Elaborative rehearsal, which involves connecting new information with existing knowledge, enhances encoding in LTM.

Key Studies

Several studies have provided support for the Multi-Store Model by demonstrating distinct characteristics of STM and LTM.

Glanzer and Cunitz

• Participants tend to remember the first few and last few words from a word list, showing a serial position effect.
• Primacy effect: Early words are encoded into LTM due to sufficient rehearsal.
• Recency effect: Late words are held in STM due to their recent exposure.

Case of KF

• KF, a patient with brain damage, had impaired STM but intact LTM.
• This supports the distinction between the two memory stores.

Critical Evaluation

The Multi-Store Model offers valuable insights into the structure and processes of STM. It has provided a framework for further research on memory. Some strengths and weaknesses of the model are as follows:

Strengths

• Understanding STM and LTM: The model clarifies the structure and processes of STM, aiding researchers in conducting experiments to improve its validity.
• Evidence of Distinction: Many studies support the distinction between STM and LTM, such as the primacy and recency effects.
• Case of HM: HM's inability to encode new long-term memories after brain surgery supports the model's differentiation between STM and LTM.

Weaknesses

• Oversimplification: The model oversimplifies the complexity of STM and LTM. The Working Model of Memory proposed by Baddeley and Hitch revealed different components within STM.
• Multiple Types of LTM: Different types of long-term memory, including episodic, procedural, and semantic, challenge the notion of a single LTM store.
• Role of Rehearsal: Rehearsal alone cannot account for the transfer of information from STM to LTM. Factors like motivation, effect, and strategy also influence learning.

Conclusion

The Multi-Store Model, proposed by Atkinson and Shiffrin, offers a valuable framework for understanding memory. By elucidating the distinct characteristics of sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory, this model has contributed significantly to memory research. While the model has certain limitations, such as oversimplification and neglect of certain memory processes, it remains a foundational concept in the field of cognitive psychology.