Definition of Short-Term Memory
Short-term memory, in psychology, refers to the cognitive system responsible for temporarily storing and managing a small amount of information for immediate use. It acts as a workspace for conscious thought, holding data for seconds to minutes without permanent encoding. This component of memory, part of the broader Atkinson-Shiffrin model, bridges sensory input and long-term storage.
Key Characteristics and Components
Short-term memory has a limited capacity, typically around seven plus or minus two items as proposed by George Miller in 1956, and a duration of about 20-30 seconds without rehearsal. It involves active processes like maintenance rehearsal to retain information and is closely linked to attention and phonological loops for verbal data or visuospatial sketchpads for visual information, as described in Baddeley's working memory model.
Practical Example
Consider looking up a phone number: you read the digits, hold them in short-term memory long enough to dial, and then the information fades unless repeated or transferred to long-term memory. This illustrates how short-term memory supports sequential tasks like mental arithmetic, where adding numbers step-by-step relies on retaining intermediate results.
Importance and Real-World Applications
Short-term memory is essential for learning, problem-solving, and decision-making, enabling the manipulation of information in real time. Impairments, as seen in conditions like Alzheimer's or after brain injuries, highlight its role in daily functioning; therapies often target it to improve academic performance and cognitive rehabilitation.