The effect of Retrieval Induced Forgetting in schizophrenia and clinical depression

(supervisors Dr. David Groome, Dr. Trudi Edginton, Dr. Kevin Morgan)

Email: f.sterkaj@my.westminster.ac.uk

Abstract

Retrieval-Induced Forgetting (RIF) is thought to reflect the activity of a neural inhibitory process, which causes the suppression of rival memories when a target memory is successfully retrieved. The aim of this research programme is to investigate the characteristics of the RIF inhibition mechanism in schizophrenic and depressed individuals, and more specifically to test the hypothesis that the RIF mechanism might be impaired in these disorders.  The relationship between RIF and depression will also be investigated within the normal population. It is also planned to study the relationship between RIF and cortisol, a hormone which is known to be associated with stress and depression. The findings of this study could offer new insights into the mechanisms underlying depression and schizophrenia.

Publications/Presentations

Groome, D., & Sterkaj, F. (2010). Retrieval-induced forgetting and clinical depression. Cognition and Emotion, 24, 63-70.

Groome, D.  & Sterkaj F (2008) Retrieval-Induced Forgetting in Schizophrenia and Depression. Poster at the Psychology Cluster Research Forum, Kings Fund, London, May 8

Groome, D., & Sterkaj, F. (2008). Retrieval-induced forgetting in schizophrenia and depression. Poster presented at the BPS Annual conference (Dublin, April).

Groome, D. & Sterkaj, F. (2007). Retrieval-induced forgetting in schizophrenia and depression.