The Differences Between Prospective And Retrospective Memory
Have you ever told yourself to remember to turn the oven on at a certain time in the future and then do so? Or remembered that the oven needs to be at a certain temperature when you do turn it on? If so, you’ve utilized prospective and retrospective memory, respectively.
Below, we’re going to discuss prospective and retrospective memory, their characteristics, and how they differ.
What is prospective memory?
Prospective memory is memory related to something that needs to be done in the future. It is a type of long-term memory that is responsible for remembering a planned event or intention. You use prospective memory frequently throughout each day. It is one of the most functional types of memory, and deficits in it can be especially damaging and frustrating.
Time-based prospective memory
You use time-based prospective memory when you want to do something at a specific time in the future. This type of prospective memory is often the first to fail in memory disorders. It requires attention and recollection of a set time; therefore, using it to store and recall information can be difficult. People tend to test lower on time-based prospective memory tests, regardless of whether they’ve experienced memory impairment.
Event-based prospective memory
Event-based prospective memory is at work when you want to do something at a point in the future and are reminded of an event. It can be a planned event, such as going to bed or eating a meal, or it can be an unplanned event, such as seeing your computer and remembering to write an email. This is a much more common type of prospective memory and one that is typically easier to utilize.
Prospective memory examples
When you have a planned event for the future, you are typically using your prospective memory when you remember it. Some examples of prospective memory include remembering to:
- Watch a football game at a specific time
- Go to a doctor's appointment
- Mow the yard when you see the lawnmower
- Brush your teeth before bed
- Take your medication with your meal
- Charge your phone when you see a cable
- Perform a specific task at work
What is retrospective memory?
Retrospective memory refers to the processing of knowledge of the past that you’ve gained through learning, experiencing, or other methods. Retrospective memory makes up the largest part of your long-term memory. When memory loss occurs, retrospective memory is usually greatly impacted.
Episodic memory
Episodic memory refers to remembering things you have done or that have happened to you throughout your life. Episodic memory includes autobiographical memory, such as remembering your wedding day, and memory of recent events, like what you ate for breakfast this morning.
Semantic memory
Semantic memory is your memory of facts and knowledge that you’ve learned throughout your life (e.g., knowing all the state capitals). When you remember sitting in class and your professor saying something specific about a topic, that is episodic memory. But when you don't recall the gaining of the information, just the information itself, that is semantic memory.
Procedural memory
Procedural memory is your memory of how to do things. It is typically automatic and does not require specific recall. Procedural memory is responsible for helping you remember how to walk, talk, run, ride a bike, and drive a car.
Retrospective memory examples
When you remember the knowledge you’ve gained or experiences you’ve had in the past, you’re utilizing retrospective memory. Some of the most common examples of retrospective memory include remembering:
- Your wedding day
- The birth of your child
- That the capital of the United States is Washington, DC, and that it is different than Washington state
- How to ride a bike when you have not done so in many years
- How to drive a car
- How to eat with a fork and knife
Prospective/retrospective memory and the brain
One of the biggest differences between prospective and retrospective memory is that they sometimes use different parts of the brain to operate. Therefore, some brain injuries and alterations may affect prospective memory but not retrospective memory, and vice versa.
Prospective memory and the brain
Various regions of the brain are responsible for the processing of prospective memory. You make use of the frontal lobe, the parietal lobe, and the limbic system when you remember to perform future tasks through prospective memory. The frontal lobe is important because a certain amount of episodic and semantic memory is required to remember to perform—and to carry out—a task. Specifically, the prefrontal cortex section of the frontal lobe is directly involved in remembering event-based prospective memory. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for holding the memory of the intention and repressing conflicting thoughts. Research suggests that the prefrontal cortex is less important, however, to time-based prospective memory.
The parietal lobe is responsible for recognizing the cues that remind you to do something in the future. This is especially true when the cues are visual or spatial. The parietal lobe is primarily used to remember event-based prospective memory tasks (and less important for remembering time-based prospective memory tasks). When you remember to mail a letter because you saw a mailbox, your retrieval of that information is partly facilitated by the parietal lobe.
The parietal cortex is a brain region used in time-based prospective memory. People who have damage to this part of the brain are often unable to track time effectively to fulfill time-based prospective memory tasks. The limbic system is also important for prospective memory. Made up of the more primitive parts of the brain—including the hippocampus, the thalamus, and the anterior and posterior cingulate—it allows you to set and remember intentions. For example, the thalamus is activated when you recognize and act upon cues during some prospective memory tasks.
Retrospective memory and the brain
Like with prospective memory, our use of retrospective memory relies heavily on the hippocampus and the thalamus, as well as the prefrontal cortex. However, we also utilize the medial temporal lobe, the part of the brain important for the creation and retention of new memories, for retrospective memory. The amygdala is also a highly important brain structure for retrospective memory.
It is thought that the anterior temporal lobe plays an important role in our ability to recall information through semantic and episodic memory. Research suggests that the use of procedural memory is facilitated by the cerebellum, along with the frontal and parietal regions of the brain.
Effects of aging
One of the effects of aging is the degradation of memory, but research suggests that age may not affect prospective and retrospective memory equally. In one study, when subjects young and old were tested for both prospective and retrospective memory, they found that age did not play as substantial a role in the ability to complete prospective memory tasks. On the other hand, aging was a significant factor in the ability to utilize retrospective memory for certain tests.
Effects of Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that typically leads to severe memory loss. Researchers have tested extensively to see what types of memory the disease affects. One study found that Alzheimer’s disease affects both prospective and retrospective memory equally. However, prospective memory loss is often the first type reported in people with Alzheimer's.
Ability to retrain memory
Retrospective memory loss is often permanent and unable to be restored through training. When it comes to prospective memory, however, research has shown that it can be retrained and brought back to somewhat normal use. Researchers in one study trained people with Alzheimer’s disease to remember and complete a prospective memory task. After one week, the participants could again complete the task, even when it was slightly changed.
Online therapy for memory and mental health
Research shows that online therapy can help address memory impairment that may arise as a result of—or concurrently with—a mental health concern. For example, in one study, researchers found that online therapy could effectively improve memory retention in individuals who have a history of depression. The study specifically noted improvements in participants’ verbal working memory, a form of retrospective memory.
If you’re living with memory loss, a related mental health condition, or other concerns, online therapy can help. With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can easily schedule therapy appointments and receive frequent reminders of upcoming sessions, making it easier for you to remember them. Your therapist can also connect you with exercises and other resources that you can utilize to help reinforce concepts you’ve discussed and learn more about the role memory plays in your life.
Takeaway
What is prospective vs retrospective memory in psychology?
Prospective memory and retrospective memory are two distinct types of human memory processes in psychology that serve different functions:
The term prospective memory involves remembering to perform an intended action or carry out a planned activity in the future. It's about remembering to do something at a specific time or when a particular event or cue occurs. For example, remembering to attend a meeting at 2:00 PM, take medication after dinner, or buy groceries on the way home from work are all examples of prospective memory tasks. Prospective memory can be further divided into two subtypes, event-based prospective memory (triggered by specific cues or events) and time-based prospective memory (triggered by a specific time or deadline). Prospective memory fails may result in missed appointments or events.
Retrospective memory, on the other hand, pertains to the ability to recall or remember information, events, or experiences from the past. It's about retrieving and recalling previously learned or experienced material. Remembering what you ate for breakfast this morning, recalling facts for an exam, or recollecting a childhood event are all examples of retrospective memory tasks. Retrospective memory can be further categorized into three primary subtypes, episodic, semantic, and procedural memory. Episodic memory refers to recalling events from ones life, semantic memory is involved with remembering facts, and procedural memory relates to how to perform tasks.
What is an example of prospective memory?
An example of prospective memory is remembering to take a medication at 8:00 in the morning. Prospective memories involve remembering to do things in the future. Generally speaking, remembering events like appointments, returning a phone call, or to pick up milk on the way home are all examples of prospective memory.
What is a retrospective memory example?
Retrospective memory involves remembering past events or pieces of information. For example, recalling what you ate for dinner last night is a retrospective memory. Other retrospective memories may include events such as, free recall of information, remembering how to change a car’s oil, or remembering your favorite birthday. Another retrospective memory component may be a type of recognition memory which enables individuals to recognize faces or past acquaintences.
What is prospective vs retrospective?
In the context of memory, prospective memory involves remembering to do something in the future (e.g., taking medication at a specific time), while retrospective memory involves recalling past events, facts, or experiences (e.g., remembering what you had for breakfast this morning). These terms help differentiate between actions and processes that are future-focused and those that are past-focused.
What differentiates prospective memory from typical retrospective memory tasks?
The main aspect that differentiates a prospective memory task from a retrospective memory task is time orientation. Generally speaking, prospective memory is looking forward or planning an event in the future such as remembering to wish someone happy birthday or remembering to stop at the store on the way home. Retrospective memory typically looks backward in time and focuses on recalling information from the past. Remembering what you ate for breakfast is a retrospective memory.
Why is prospective better than retrospective?
Prospective memory and retrospective memory are not inherently better or worse than each other; they serve different purposes and are essential for various aspects of daily life and cognitive functioning. Both types of memory have their own strengths and applications. Here's why one is not necessarily better than the other:
- Different Functions: Retrospective and prospective memory may serve distinct functions, and their utility depends on the context and the tasks at hand.
- Retrospective Memory: Retrospective memory, on the other hand, may be vital for recalling past experiences, facts, and information. It plays a crucial role in learning from the past, making informed decisions, and drawing upon past knowledge.
- Prospective Memory: Prospective memory may be crucial for remembering to perform future actions or tasks, which is essential for planning, organization, and time management. It helps us carry out our intentions and meet future obligations efficiently.
- Complementary Roles: Prospective and retrospective memory often work together to facilitate our daily functioning. For example, prospective memory helps us remember to attend a doctor's appointment (future event), while retrospective memory allows us to recall our medical history and provide relevant information during the appointment (past information).
- Context-Dependent: The value of prospective or retrospective memory depends on the specific situation and the tasks or goals involved. Neither may be inherently better because their effectiveness varies depending on the cognitive demands of the task.
How is prospective memory formed?
Prospective memory, the ability to remember to perform an intended action or carry out a planned activity in the future, is a complex cognitive process that involves several key components and strategies. Here's an overview of how prospective memory is formed and executed:
- Encoding: The process of forming a prospective memory begins with encoding, where you create a mental representation of the intended action or task. During encoding, you establish the intention to remember to do something in the future. This step often involves setting a specific goal or plan, such as remembering to take medication at a particular time or attending a meeting.
- Cue Identification: Cues or triggers play are another important prospective memory component and they serve their role by initiating the intended action. You identify specific cues or events that will remind you to perform the task in the future. These cues can be time-based (e.g., 3:00 PM) or event-based (e.g., when you see a specific person).
- Monitoring: After encoding the intention and identifying cues, you engage in ongoing monitoring to keep track of time, events, or situations that may signal the need to perform the intended action. Monitoring helps you stay alert to the cues that will trigger your memory.
- Retrieval: When the appropriate cue or event occurs, you retrieve the encoded intention from memory. This retrieval process involves recalling what you planned to do in response to the cue. It's essential to access the prospective memory accurately and without delay.
- Execution: After successfully retrieving the intention, you execute the planned action or task. This is the moment when you perform the intended behavior, such as taking medication or attending a meeting.
What is prospective memory in old age?
Prospective memory in old age refers to the ability of older adults to remember to perform intended actions or carry out planned activities in the future. It is a specific aspect of cognitive functioning that can change as individuals age. While some age-related changes may cause impaired performance in terms of prospective memory, older adults can adopt strategies and interventions to support their conscious awareness and their ability to remember and execute future intentions effectively.
How are prospective and retrospective similar?
Prospective and retrospective memory are two distinct types of memory processes in cognitive psychology that serve different functions and focus on different orientations in time. Retrospective and prospective memory research also indicates that the brain regions involved between the two types of memory also vary. However, both memory types also share some similarities in terms of their fundamental role in human cognition and memory. Here are ways in which prospective and retrospective memory are similar:
- Both are Memory Functions: Prospective and retrospective memory are both functions of memory, which may be a fundamental cognitive process that allows individuals to encode, store, and retrieve information. They may be integral components of our overall memory system.
- Both Involve Encoding: In both prospective and retrospective memory, the process of encoding may play a critical role. In prospective memory, you encode the intention to perform a future action, while in retrospective memory, you encode information, events, or experiences from the past.
- Both Rely on Retrieval: Both types of memory involve retrieval, the process of accessing and bringing to consciousness stored information. In prospective memory, retrieval occurs when you remember to perform the intended action in the future, and in retrospective memory, retrieval is the process of recalling past events, facts, or experiences.
- Both Impact Daily Life: Both prospective and retrospective memory may be important for everyday functioning. Prospective memory helps you remember to perform future tasks and obligations, such as taking medication or attending appointments, while retrospective memory allows you to recall important information, learn from past experiences, and make informed decisions.
- Both Can Be Enhanced: Strategies and techniques can be used to improve both prospective and retrospective memory. For example, individuals can use external aids like calendars, reminders, or notes to support prospective and retrospective memory tasks. Additionally, cognitive training and mnemonic techniques can enhance retrospective and prospective memory performance.
- Both Can Be Affected by Aging and Cognitive Impairments: Both prospective and retrospective memory can be influenced by factors such as aging and cognitive impairments. Age-related changes and conditions like Alzheimer's disease can impact memory performance in both areas.
What is prospective memory social importance?
Prospective memory has significant social importance in various aspects of daily life and societal functioning. It plays a crucial role in facilitating individual and collective well-being, productivity, and responsible behavior. Here are some key ways in which prospective memory is socially important:
- Medication Adherence: Prospective memory may be important for individuals who need to take medications regularly, such as those with chronic illnesses or conditions. Prospective memory failure in individuals on medication may lead to health complications from missing treatment.
- Appointments and Obligations: Remembering to attend meetings, appointments, and social engagements is essential for maintaining personal and professional relationships. Reliable prospective memory contributes to effective time management and fulfilling social commitments.
- Safety: Prospective memory may be important for ensuring safety in various contexts. For example, remembering to turn off appliances, lock doors, or follow safety procedures at work can prevent accidents and protect individuals and their communities.
- Responsibility: Meeting deadlines and fulfilling responsibilities at work, school, or in volunteer roles relies on prospective memory. Reliable memory for tasks and obligations supports productivity and contributes to the functioning of organizations and institutions.
- Personal Planning: Prospective memory may be useful for planning and executing future goals and projects. It helps individuals set objectives, establish action plans, and meet personal aspirations, contributing to self-improvement and growth.
- Civic Engagement: In the context of civic engagement and responsible citizenship, prospective memory plays a role in remembering to vote, participate in community events, or fulfill civic duties, contributing to the functioning of democratic societies.
- Financial Management: Managing finances effectively, such as paying bills on time and saving for the future, requires reliable prospective memory. This contributes to personal financial stability and overall economic well-being.
- Previous Article
- Next Article