Michael Is Studying for a Test in Chemistry

question 98

Multiple Choice

Michael is studying for a test in chemistry. After seven consecutive hours of studying, he finds he can remember what he studied five or six hours ago, but he cannot remember what he studied just ten minutes ago. Michael's memory problems are best explained by ________.

• A) retrograde amnesia
• B) proactive interference
• C) memory diffusion
• D) retroactive interference

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Definitions:

Operant Conditioning

A method of learning that employs rewards and punishments for behavior, which increases or decreases the likelihood of the behavior being repeated, as conceptualized by B.F. Skinner.

Reinforcer

A reinforcer is any stimulus that strengthens or increases the probability of a specific response or behavior by providing a desirable consequence or outcome.

Punisher

An unfavorable consequence or penalty intended to reduce the occurrence of an unwanted behavior.

Respondent Behavior

A behavior that occurs as an automatic response to some stimulus; typically used in the context of classical conditioning.