Which concept best demonstrates the process of losing a memory within the first minutes and hours of learning?

• A. The two-factor theory
• B. The Yerkes-Dodson law
• C. The forgetting curve
• D. The James-Lange theory

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question is asking about a concept that explains how memory is lost shortly after learning, specifically within the first minutes and hours.
2. Step 2: Review each option to identify which theory or concept relates directly to memory loss or forgetting over time.
3. Step 3: Recognize that the two-factor theory relates to emotion, the Yerkes-Dodson law relates to arousal and performance, and the James-Lange theory relates to emotion and physiological responses, so these are less relevant to memory loss.
4. Step 4: Identify that the forgetting curve is a concept developed by Hermann Ebbinghaus that describes the decline of memory retention over time, especially rapid loss soon after learning.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the forgetting curve best demonstrates the process of losing a memory within the first minutes and hours after learning.