short-term memory

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The memory process that deals with the storage, retrieval and modification of information received a short time (up to about 30 minutes) ago. This type of memory is typically dependent on direct, transient effects of second messenger activation. [http://hebb.mit.edu/courses/9.03/lecture4.html, ISBN:0582227089]

Short-term memory, also known as working memory, is a cognitive system that allows us to hold a small amount of information in mind for a brief period. It acts as a temporary storage and processing system, enabling us to perform tasks that require the manipulation and integration of information. This process involves several key steps:

1. **Encoding:** Incoming sensory information is transformed into a format that can be understood and processed by the brain. This can involve visual, auditory, or semantic encoding, depending on the nature of the information.

2. **Storage:** The encoded information is temporarily stored in the working memory. The capacity of working memory is limited, typically holding only a few items at a time. This limitation can be overcome by chunking, a strategy that groups individual items into meaningful units.

3. **Retrieval:** When needed, stored information is retrieved from working memory. This process can be influenced by factors such as attention, rehearsal, and interference.

4. **Manipulation:** Working memory allows us to actively manipulate and process information. This includes tasks such as mental calculations, problem-solving, and language comprehension.

5. **Maintenance:** To keep information in working memory, it requires constant attention and rehearsal. Without active maintenance, information fades away quickly.

**Neural Basis:**

Short-term memory relies on a network of brain regions, primarily within the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in attention, executive control, and working memory maintenance. Other brain regions, such as the hippocampus and parietal cortex, are also involved in encoding, storage, and retrieval processes.

**Duration and Capacity:**

The duration of short-term memory is typically around 15-30 seconds, although this can be extended through rehearsal or chunking. The capacity of working memory is limited, typically holding around 7 +/- 2 items (Miller's Law).

**Types of Short-term Memory:**

There are different types of short-term memory, including:

* **Phonological loop:** Responsible for holding and manipulating auditory information.
* **Visuospatial sketchpad:** Holds and manipulates visual and spatial information.
* **Episodic buffer:** Integrates information from different sources, allowing for the formation of coherent memories.

**Importance:**

Short-term memory is essential for many cognitive functions, including language comprehension, problem-solving, decision-making, and learning. It allows us to hold information in mind long enough to process it, make connections, and ultimately, form new memories.

**Disruptions:**

Disruptions to short-term memory can occur due to various factors, such as:

* **Brain injury:** Damage to the prefrontal cortex or other relevant brain regions can impair working memory.
* **Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):** Individuals with ADHD often have difficulty with working memory, leading to problems with focus, organization, and task completion.
* **Stress and anxiety:** High levels of stress can negatively affect working memory by interfering with attention and cognitive processing.

Understanding the process of short-term memory is crucial for gaining insight into how we learn, remember, and interact with the world around us.'
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