What is the term for the failure to retrieve stored information?

• A. Interference
• B. Repression
• C. Retrieval Failure
• D. Fading

Answer: (C)

The term for the failure to retrieve stored information is "Retrieval Failure." This concept refers to instances when information that has been encoded and stored in memory becomes inaccessible, even though it may still exist in the brain. Factors like the absence of cues or contextual information can contribute to this failure, making it difficult to bring the information back into conscious awareness.

Retrieval failure can occur in various contexts, such as during tests or when trying to recall a name or fact. Enhanced recall can often be achieved by providing appropriate cues or contexts that trigger the memory, illustrating the importance of retrieval mechanisms in memory processes.

Other terms in the options refer to related but distinct concepts. Interference typically involves competition between similar memories, which can affect retrieval but is not the same as retrieval failure itself. Repression involves the subconscious blocking of memories, often related to anxiety or trauma, distinguishing it from the straightforward failure to access information. Fading refers to the gradual loss of information over time due to issues like decay and is also different from the process involved in retrieval failure.