page_title: Retrieval-induced forgetting
section_title: Theoretical explanations
hierarchical_section_title: Retrieval-induced forgetting / Theoretical explanations
caption_attribution_description: English: Diagram explaining a general inhibitory response according to the theory of inhibition in cognitive psychology. Adapted from a version by Michael C. Anderson (2007).
context_page_description: Retrieval-induced forgetting is a memory phenomenon where remembering causes forgetting of other information in memory. The phenomenon was first demonstrated in 1994, although the concept of RIF has been previously discussed in the context of retrieval inhibition.
  RIF is demonstrated through a three-phase experiment consisting of study, practice of some studied material, and a final test of all studied material. Such experiments have also used multiple kinds of final tests including recall using only category cues, recall using category and word stems, and recognition tests. The effect has been produced using many different kinds of materials, can be produced in group settings, and is reduced in special clinical populations.
  Although RIF occurs as a consequence of conscious remembering through explicit retrieval, the actual forgetting is thought to occur implicitly, below the level of awareness. Cognitive psychologists continue to debate why RIF occurs, and how it relates to the larger picture of memory and general cognition.
caption: Diagram describing when an inhibitory response would be required.  According to the inhibitory account of RIF, when prepotent memories are active but inappropriate in response to a cue, they are inhibited in order to access a less accessible but contextually appropriate memory.
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