Active Memory: A Review of Current Perspectives
Introduction
Memory is a vital component in the functioning of the human brain. It is a powerful asset that allows us to recall past experiences, store new information, and rely on our knowledge to better understand our environment and make decisions. Active memory is an area of research that focuses on understanding how memory is used to actively process and store information. This review paper aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on active memory and discuss its importance in cognitive functioning.
Theories of Active Memory
Research on active memory has been largely informed by the working memory model (Baddeley, 1986). This model posits that working memory is a limited capacity store of information that is used to actively manipulate and process information. The working memory model is based on the notion that information is maintained in a temporary store while being manipulated. This view of active memory has been further refined through research on executive functions (Miyake, Friedman, Emerson, Witzki, & Howerter, 2000). Executive functions are higher-order cognitive processes that allow us to plan, organize, and monitor our behavior. These processes are important for effective problem solving and decision making.
Neurophysiological Evidence for Active Memory
Neurophysiological evidence suggests that active memory is mediated by a network of interconnected neural structures (Hampson, Deadwyler, Berridge, & Mizumori, 2006). These structures include the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and basal ganglia. The prefrontal cortex is involved in planning, decision making, and monitoring of behavior. The hippocampus is important for the formation of new memories and the retrieval of stored information. The basal ganglia is involved in the formation of habits and automatic behavior. Neuroimaging studies have revealed that these areas of the brain are active during active memory tasks (Buckner, 2004).
Clinical Implications
Active memory is an integral part of everyday life and is essential for effective functioning. Dysfunction in active memory can significantly impair cognitive functioning and lead to deficits in problem solving, decision making, and other executive functions. Research has shown that individuals with psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) display deficits in active memory (Dudchenko, 2004). Understanding the processes underlying active memory can help identify potential interventions for individuals with deficits in this area.
Conclusion
Active memory is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is essential for effective cognitive functioning. Neurophysiological evidence suggests that active memory is mediated by a network of interconnected neural structures. Research has also shown that deficits in active memory can be associated with certain psychiatric conditions. Future research should focus on identifying the neural basis of active memory and potential interventions for individuals with deficits in this area.
References
Baddeley, A. (1986). Working memory. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Buckner, R. (2004). Memory and executive function in aging and AD: Multiple factors that cause decline and reserve factors that compensate. Neuron, 44(1), 195–208. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2004.09.003
Dudchenko, P. (2004). Neuropsychology of working memory. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Hampson, R. E., Deadwyler, S. A., Berridge, C. W., & Mizumori, S. J. (2006). Pattern separation in hippocampal-cortical ensemble activity. Neuron, 52(3), 519–530. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2006.08.027
Miyake, A., Friedman, N. P., Emerson, M. J., Witzki, A. H., & Howerter, A. (2000). The unity and diversity of executive functions and their contributions to complex “frontal lobe” tasks: A latent variable analysis. Cognitive Psychology, 41(1), 49–100. https://doi.org/10.1006/cogp.1999.0734