In the context of memory processes, what is the key distinction between maintenance rehearsal and elaborative rehearsal?

• A. Maintenance rehearsal requires creating mental images, while elaborative rehearsal does not involve imagery.
• B. Maintenance rehearsal is used for long-term memory storage, while elaborative rehearsal is only effective for short-term memory.
• C. Maintenance rehearsal focuses on understanding the meaning of information, whereas elaborative rehearsal relies solely on rote repetition.
• D. Maintenance rehearsal involves repeating information to keep it in short-term memory, while elaborative rehearsal involves linking new information to existing knowledge for deeper encoding.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of maintenance rehearsal. This is a memory process where information is repeated over and over to keep it active in short-term memory without necessarily understanding its meaning.
2. Step 2: Understand the concept of elaborative rehearsal. This involves processing information more deeply by linking it to existing knowledge, which helps encode it into long-term memory.
3. Step 3: Compare the two types of rehearsal based on their purpose and effectiveness. Maintenance rehearsal is primarily for short-term retention through repetition, while elaborative rehearsal promotes long-term retention through meaningful connections.
4. Step 4: Recognize that maintenance rehearsal does not typically involve understanding or creating mental images, whereas elaborative rehearsal often involves deeper cognitive processing, such as creating associations or mental imagery.
5. Step 5: Summarize the key distinction: maintenance rehearsal keeps information in short-term memory by repetition, while elaborative rehearsal enhances memory by linking new information to what is already known, facilitating long-term storage.