Durability of Retrieval-induced Forgetting: Effects of Different Practice Schedules

If retrieval-induced forgetting (RIF) is to play a role in the formation of collective memories, it should be long lasting. Although several studies have found that RIF is short-lived, there is other evidence to suggest that repeated selective practice schedules with a temporal gap between each practice trial may increase the durability of RIF. We tested this possibility in three experiments, focusing on socially shared retrieval-induced forgetting (SSRIF). In two experiments, participants studied scientific or story materials, then listened to someone selectively recall the material repeatedly, either in rapid succession or over an extended time period, and finally recalled the original materials either immediately, after a 1-week delay, or after a 3-week delay. A third experiment examined selective practice in free-flowing conversations. In each instance, RIF was found with repeated selective practice with a temporal gap between trials. The results are discussed in terms of the role RIF might play in the formation of collective memory.