Question

How might you explain the Von Restorff Effect using interference?

Answer 1

Von Restorff effect is the remembering or recalling of events that were distinctive or unusual as compared to that of the other events or facts which were ordinary. Interference is broadly classified into 2 types such as Proactive and retroactive interference. In both these types of interferences, there is the retention of some parts of old or new memory overlapping one another. Let me make this point more clear. In Proactive interference, there is the retention of those portions of old memory which is distinctive or one that has undergone Von restorff effect. Similarly, in retroactive interference, there is the retention of those portions of new memory which is distinctive or one that has undergone Von restorff effect. In short, Interference happens primarily due to a portion of memory either old or new undergoing Von restorff effect.