Multi-Store Model of Memory

Strengths & Weaknesses of Multi-Store Model of Memory.

Criticism is appreciated.

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Multi-Store Model of Memeory

Advantages

  • FIRST MODEL: Studies by Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968) has lead to further research into memory and how the human mind works. Other Psychologists and researchers have bases many experiments to either prove or disprove this study.
  • BRAIN DAMAGE: Brain function is complex, and in some cases how through accident it can be damaged. Atkinson & Shiffrin's research into memory has helped doctors diagnose problems and disorders to patients for many years.

Disadvantages

  • LOW EXTERNAL VALIDITY: The Multi-Store Model was developed in a very artificial (laboratory) environment. Unfamiliar stimuli to the participant can cause extraneous variables (such as Demand Characteristics) This means that the MSM cannot be proved to be a natural process.
  • UNITARY STORES: The STM might not be a unitary store as the MSM of memory suggests. The MSM has been criticised for being 'too simplistic.'
  • STORAGE DUMP: The MSM makes out that the mind's process for memory is a series of moving infomation from one store to the next, i.e a Storage Dump. Other models of memory (Look at the WORKING MEMORY MODEL) make out memory to be more active, and that infomation is being processed constantly in our minds.

Evaluation

The Multi-Store Model of Memory has come up in the exam paper of Jan 2012 AQA PSY1 as a 12 marks question. These points can be used to EVALUATE the MSM and get you the A02 marks you need. I would advise going on the AQA website itself and look at the markscheme/examiner's report for extra help. Hope this helps.

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