Question

When learning something new impairs the ability to retrieve information learnt earlier, it is known as _________.

• A. retroactive interference
• B. proactive interference
• C. tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon
• D. recency effect

Hint:

Remember: \textbf{Retroactive = New interferes with Old}, while \textbf{Proactive = Old interferes with New}.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall the definition of retroactive interference.
Retroactive interference occurs when newly learned information interferes with the recall of previously learned information.

Step 2: Apply to the given situation.
Here, learning something new impairs the ability to retrieve older information. This matches exactly with retroactive interference.

Step 3: Eliminate other options.
- Proactive interference is the reverse: older information interferes with new learning.
- Tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon is a retrieval failure, not interference.
- Recency effect refers to remembering the most recent items better.
Thus, the correct answer is retroactive interference.