How does memory construction contribute to inaccurate memories?
● Elizabeth Loftus demonstrated the tendency to construct memories, often falsely, because of the misinformation effect.
● Constructed memories and the misinformation effect have important implications for courtroom testimony, especially in regards to the accuracy of eyewitness testimony.
● Studies indicate that children may be especially prone to constructed memories and the misinformation effect.
● Reports of recovered memories (adult memories, often of physical and sexual abuse suffered as children) are controversial, and memory researchers continue to try to uncover the truth about this phenomenon.
