Input Restriction and Immediate Memory Decay in Normal and Subnormal Children

Abstract

Twelve imbeciles and 12 normals, matched for their digit memory span, were presented with three digit numbers successively and simultaneously. Seven speeds of presentation were used. Each simultaneous speed of presentation had a corresponding successive speed. Subjects were required to recall digits on the conclusion of presentation of each number. Each performance was scored as the number of errors for each digit. With simultaneous presentations the difference between the groups was significant only at fast presentation speed, where the normals were significantly better than the imbeciles. Imbeciles improved at slow speeds and became as good as normals. In the case of successive presentations differences between groups occur only in relation to the second digit, which the normals remember better than the subnormals. Both groups remember the first digit worst as rates of presentation become progressively slower. Results are explained in terms of input restriction and of memory trace decay.