Implicit memory

Implicit memory is one of the two main types of long-term human memory. It is acquired and used unconsciously, and can affect thoughts and behaviours. One of its most common forms is procedural memory, which helps people performing certain tasks without conscious awareness of these previous experiences.

Definition

Implicit memory is sometimes referred to as unconscious memory or automatic memory. Implicit memory uses past experiences to remember things without thinking about them. The performance of implicit memory is enabled by previous experiences, no matter how long ago those experiences occurred.

Types of Implicit Memory

Implicit memory can be divided into four types: procedural memory, priming, classical conditioning, and habituation.

Procedural Memory

Procedural memory is a type of implicit memory that involves motor skills and behavioral habits. It is the memory of how to do things. It allows you to do things by rote.

Priming

Priming is another type of implicit memory which involves the ability to identify a stimulus more quickly or accurately, or to respond more quickly or accurately to a stimulus, after a specific prior exposure to the stimulus.

Classical Conditioning

Classical conditioning is a type of implicit memory that involves learning about associations between stimuli. This type of memory is often known as associative learning.

Habituation

Habituation is a type of implicit memory that involves learning to ignore a constant stimulus over time.

Clinical Significance

Implicit memory's effects can be seen in patients with amnesia who cannot recall certain information but tend to show implicit memory for that information. Studies have shown that implicit memory can remain largely intact without the support of the medial temporal lobe, suggesting that implicit and explicit memory may be mediated by separate brain systems.

See Also

• Explicit memory
• Long-term memory
• Short-term memory
• Working memory

References

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