Associative Activation as a Mechanism Underlying False Memory Formation

Henry Otgaar*, Mark L. Howe, Peter Muris, Harald Merckelbach

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalEditorialAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

We recently made the case that associative activation is a viable mechanism underlying false memory formation and hence also false memory formation in psychopathology. In a recent issue of Clinical Psychological Science, Tryon argued that our description of associative activation did not meet the criteria of causation and explanatory value in order to qualify as a mechanism. In this commentary, we explain why we disagree with Tryon. Many studies focused on associative activation and false memory creation. We believe that these studies provide good arguments for associative activation as a likely causal antecedent in the production of false memories.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)191-195
Number of pages5
JournalClinical Psychological Science
Volume7
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2019

Keywords

  • associative activation
  • false memory
  • mechanism
  • psychopathology
  • SPREADING ACTIVATION
  • DIVIDED ATTENTION
  • WORD LISTS
  • CHILDRENS
  • ADULTS
  • TRUE
  • MEDIATORS
  • RECALL

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