Perceptions of forgetfulness in adulthood: Does memory knowledge matter?

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2011

Abstract

We examined the effects of age and knowledge of memory aging on subjective appraisals of memory in forgetful others using a person perception paradigm. Younger and older adults were tested in one of three information conditions: no information control group, grandparent seminar group, and memory aging seminar group. All completed the Knowledge Memory of Aging Questionnaire (KMAQ; Cherry, Brigman, Hawley, & Reese, 2003) at pretest and posttest to evaluate changes in memory aging knowledge. All read vignettes that described forgetful younger (in their 20's to 30's) or older characters (in their 60's to 70's). Attribution ratings on the potential causes of the forgetful behavior and memory opinion ratings were solicited. All completed the Memory Functioning Questionnaire (MFQ; Gilewski, Zelinski, & Schaie, 1990) at posttest to measure self-perceived memory ability. Both age groups showed an age-based double standard in memory appraisal. Attribution and memory opinion ratings did not vary across the information groups. Only the memory aging seminar participants showed significant pre- to posttest gains on the KMAQ. Self-perceived memory functioning was significantly correlated with perceptions of forgetful characters. These data indicate that although memory knowledge improved following instruction, perceptions of forgetfulness in older adults were not influenced by increased knowledge of normative age-associated memory changes. © 2010 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Learning and Memory Developments and Intellectual Disabilities

First Page

101

Last Page

124

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