Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

Which of the following is referred to as the stability of implicit memory over time?

1. Declines gradually

2. Remains stable

3. Improves significantly

4. Becomes unreliable

The correct answer is: Remains stable

Implicit memory is a type of long-term memory that involves retrieval of information without conscious awareness. Research has shown that implicit memory tends to remain stable over time, particularly when it comes to skills and conditioned responses. This stability can be attributed to the fact that implicit memories are often formed through repeated practice or exposure, and they are not as susceptible to the passage of time or interference as explicit memories. For instance, skills learned through procedural memory—such as riding a bicycle or playing a musical instrument—are retained well even after long periods of non-use, demonstrating the long-lasting nature of implicit memory. This durability underscores why the correct answer refers to the stability of implicit memory over time.