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'''Decay theory''' proposes that [[memory]] fades due to the mere passage of time. [[Information]] is therefore less available for later retrieval as time passes and memory, as well as memory strength, wears away.<ref name="emtwo"> Berman, M.G. (2009) In Search of Decay in Verbal Short Term Memory [Electronic Version]. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition, 35(2), pp. 317-333. Retrieved March 6, 2010</ref> When we [[learn]] something new, a [[neurochemical]] “memory trace” is created. However, over time this trace slowly disintegrates. Actively [[memory rehearsal|rehearsing]] information is believed to be a major factor counteracting this temporal decline. <ref name="emfive">Oberauer, K., & Lewandowsky, S. (2008). Forgetting in immediate serial recall: decay, temporal distinctiveness, or interference? [Electronic version]. Psychology review, 115(3), pp. 544-576. Retrieved March 6, 2010.</ref> It is widely believed that [[neurons]] die off gradually as we age, yet some older memories can be stronger than most recent memories. Thus, decay theory mostly affects the [[short-term memory]] system, meaning that older memories (in [[long-term memory]]) are often more resistant to shocks or physical attacks on the [[brain]]. It is also thought that the passage of time alone cannot cause [[forgetting]], and that Decay Theory must also take into account some processes that occur as more time passes.<ref name="emtwo" />
==History==
===Working Memory===
Both theories are equally argued in [[working memory]]. One situation in which this shows considerable debate is within the [[memory span|complex-span task]] of working memory, whereas a complex task is alternated with the encoding of to-be-remembered items1items.<ref name="emone" /> It is either argued that the amount of time taken to perform this task or the amount of interference this task involves cause decay. <ref name="emone" /> A [[working memory#Time-based resource sharing model|time-based resource-sharing model]] has also been proposed, stating that temporal decay occurs once attention is switched away from whatever information is to be remembered, and occupied by processing of the information4. This theory gives more credit to the active rehearsal of information, as refreshing items to be remembered focuses [[attention]] back on the information to be remembered in order for it to be better processed and stored in memory4. As processing and maintenance are both crucial components of working memory, both of these processes need to be taken into account when determining which [[forgetting#Theories of forgetting|theory of forgetting]] is most valid. Research also suggests that information or an event’s [[salience (neuroscience)|salience]], or importance, may play a key role6. Working memory may decay in proportion to information or an event’s salience6. This means that if something is more meaningful to an individual, that individual may be less likely to forget it quickly.
===System Interaction===
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