Some Factors in Picture Recognition Memory

Abstract

This paper presents a review and critical analysis of some research findings and conclusions which seem to demonstrate that picture recognition memory is superior to verbal recognition memory. It cautions against accepting these data as evidence for two (picture-verbal) memory systems. Several alternative explanations of the picture-verbal performance discrepancy are derived from interference theory and partial learning theory. “Picture” as a stimulus category is vague and overinclusive. Recognition memory capacity varies from poor to excellent depending on the “pictures,” a fact not in harmony with a memory model employing a unitary processing mechanism for pictorial stimuli. Perceptual constancy is invoked in support of a view that is antagonistic to the implication that the human recognition memory mechanism is error free.