Which of the following statements is true of the decay theory of forgetting in psychology?

• A. Decay theory proposes that emotional arousal strengthens memory retention.
• B. Decay theory states that forgetting occurs primarily due to interference from new information.
• C. Decay theory suggests that memories fade over time if they are not accessed or rehearsed.
• D. Decay theory claims that forgetting is caused by motivated repression of unpleasant memories.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the decay theory of forgetting in psychology focuses on how memories weaken or fade over time when they are not actively accessed or rehearsed.
2. Recognize that decay theory does not involve emotional arousal strengthening memory; this idea is related to other theories such as the role of emotion in memory consolidation.
3. Note that decay theory is different from interference theory, which explains forgetting as a result of new information interfering with old memories.
4. Acknowledge that decay theory does not involve motivated repression, which is a concept from psychoanalytic theory where unpleasant memories are unconsciously blocked.
5. Conclude that the statement aligning with decay theory is the one that says memories fade over time if they are not accessed or rehearsed.