Memory Distinction: Implicit vs. Explicit - Understanding the Variance
In the intricate workings of the human brain, memory plays a crucial role. Our memories allow us to learn, adapt, and recall important information, and they can be broadly categorized into two types: explicit and implicit memory.
Explicit memory, also known as declarative memory, is a type of long-term memory that allows conscious recall of specific information. This type of memory is responsible for storing facts and events that we can consciously remember, such as the capital of a country or our last birthday party. Explicit memory includes both memories of past events and factual knowledge.
On the other hand, implicit memory is a type of memory that does not require conscious recollection. This memory operates unconsciously and stores procedural knowledge—knowing how to perform tasks—such as tying shoelaces, driving a car, or riding a bike. Implicit memory is based on past experiences that are automatically stored in the brain.
The difference between these two types of memory lies primarily in awareness, the type of information stored, methods of recollection, and everyday examples. Implicit memory is unconscious, non-declarative memory; it involves skills and habits not consciously recalled. Explicit memory, on the other hand, is conscious, declarative memory involving facts and events.
In terms of storage, explicit memories rely heavily on the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus, which helps convert short-term memories into long-term ones. Implicit memory, however, is supported by various brain areas associated with motor skills and habits but does not require the hippocampus for recall.
For recollection, explicit memory requires active retrieval and conscious awareness, whereas implicit memory is retrieved automatically, without intentional recall. The triggering of one procedural step cues the next in implicit memory retrieval processes.
In everyday life, implicit memory allows us to perform learned skills smoothly without needing to think through each step, while explicit memory enables us to remember details of specific events or factual information when needed. Both explicit and implicit memory can be influenced by factors such as trauma, stress, and sleep deprivation.
Understanding the difference between explicit and implicit memory can help us to better understand how our memories work. For instance, studying for an exam would primarily engage explicit memory, while learning to ride a bike would engage implicit memory. Both types of memory are essential for our daily lives, and they work together to create our unique memory systems.
References:
[1] Tulving, E. (2002). Episodic and semantic memory: Characteristics, interrelationships, and neurobiological substrates. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 6(3), 134-140.
[2] Baddeley, A. D. (2003). Working memory. Annual Review of Psychology, 54, 181-203.
[3] Schacter, D. L., & Addis, D. R. (2007). The neuropsychology of memory: Mechanisms of remembering. Current Opinion in Neurobiology, 17(3), 238-244.
[5] Cermak, L. A., & Cermak, S. L. (2004). Memory: Theoretical and practical applications. Pearson Education.
Focusing on the fundamental role of memory in health-and-wellness, it's essential to delve into the two primary forms of memory: explicit and implicit. While explicit memory, or declarative memory, stores facts and events that can be consciously recalled, implicit memory, an unconscious form of memory, is responsible for procedural knowledge, such as skills like tying shoelaces or riding a bike. In the realm of education-and-self-development and personal-growth, understanding the distinction between these two types of memory can aid in effective learning, as studying for an exam primarily engages explicit memory, while learning a new skill like playing an instrument engages implicit memory.
