Ch. 6 - Factors Contributing to False Memories

schema distortion

false or distorted memories caused by the tendency to fill in missing memory details with information that is consistent with existing knowledge about a topic

source

forgetting or misremembering the true source of a memory

suggestion

hypnosis, guided imagery, or other highly suggestive techniques that can inadvertently or intentionally create vivid false memories

false familiarity

increased feelings of familiarity due to repeatedly imagining an event

imagination inflation

unfounded confidence in a false or distorted memory caused by vividly imagining the pseudoevent

blending fact and fiction

using vivid, authentic details to add to the legitimacy and believability of a pseudoevent

misinformation effect

when erroneous information received after an event leads to distorted or false memories of the event