What is retroactive interference?

Retroactive interference refers specifically to the phenomenon where newly acquired information disrupts and makes it difficult to recall previously learned information. In this context, when new data overlaps with or is similar to old information, it can interfere with the retrieval process of that older memory.

For example, if a person learns a new phone number, they might struggle to remember an old phone number because the new information is interfering with the retrieval of the old information. This highlights how the learning and recollection of information can be interconnected and affected by the temporal sequence in which information is learned.

The other choices relate to different aspects of memory but do not accurately define retroactive interference. Recalling information in the order presented refers to serial recall, mnemonic devices are strategies that aid memory retention and retrieval, and failure to recall due to lack of cues pertains to a different memory issue where retrieval cues are not sufficient to access stored information.