Definition
The term “working memory” describes temporary memory systems involved in tasks such as reasoning, learning, and understanding. Examples of everyday tasks that rely on working memory include performing mental arithmetic or remembering a shopping list. While linked to the concept of short-term memory (STM), theories of working memory place greater emphasis on simultaneous storage and processing of information. Memory systems responsible for STM can be regarded as forming part of an overall working memory system. Working memory not only temporarily stores information but also manipulates it during complex cognitive activities. Theories of working memory are highly influential in the fields of cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral medicine.
Description
An influential model of working memory is the multicomponent approach first proposed by Baddeley and Hitch in 1974. The original model was tripartite in nature and comprised three separate, limited-capacity...
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Pearson, D. (2013). Working Memory. In: Gellman, M.D., Turner, J.R. (eds) Encyclopedia of Behavioral Medicine. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-1005-9_1185
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-1005-9_1185
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