US High School Psychology Practice Exam

Which of the following refers to the conscious recollection of specific facts and events?

1. Procedural memory

2. Implicit memory

3. Declarative memory

4. Episodic memory

The correct answer is: Declarative memory

The conscious recollection of specific facts and events is best described by declarative memory. This category of memory encompasses both episodic memory, which pertains to personal experiences and specific events, and semantic memory, which involves knowledge of general facts and information. Declarative memory is significant because it allows individuals to actively recall and articulate specific details about their experiences or knowledge upon demand. This ability to explicitly retrieve information distinguishes it from other forms of memory, such as procedural memory, which involves skills and tasks that can be performed without conscious awareness, and implicit memory, which influences behavior without conscious retrieval. In summary, declarative memory plays a key role in how we consciously process and refer back to specific facts and experiences in our lives.