Working memory, what is it

Working memory is a short -term memory system that allows you to maintain active and manipulate information to perform complex cognitive tasks. It is essential for learning, understanding of language, problem solving and reasoning.

Content

• What is working memory?
• Characteristics of working memory
• Functions of working memory
  • 1. Learning
  • 2. Language processing
  • 3. Reasoning and decision making
  • 4. Attention and concentration
  • 5. Motor and space skills
• Labor memory alterations
  • 1. Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • 2. Schizophrenia
  • 3. Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD)
  • 4. Cognitive and dementia deterioration
  • 5. Traumatic brain damage and stroke
  • 6. Post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • References

What is working memory?

Working memory is a cognitive capacity that It allows to temporarily storing and manipulating the information necessary to carry out complex cognitive tasks such as learning, reasoning and language understanding. This capacity is essential for our daily activities, from remembering a telephone number to following a conversation or solving a mathematical problem.

The most accepted theory today about working memory is the model of Baddeley and Hitch (1974), which divides it into three components: the phonological loop, the visOespacial and the central executive.

• The phonological loop: It is responsible for verbal or auditory information. Allows you to keep in mind, for example, a phone number we just listened to.
• The visual-spatial warehouse: The visual visual and spatial information, as when we remember the location of an object or a face.
• The central executive: This component coordinates these two areas and connects working memory with long -term memory and perception ..

Characteristics of working memory

This memory has a limited capacity. The number of elements that can be maintained in the working memory at the same time is relatively small, and the storage duration is also brief. However, it can be improved with practice. Its main characteristics are as follows:

• Limited: Working memory can only contain a certain amount of information at the same time, traditionally estimated in around 7 elements, although more recent research suggests that this number can be even lower.
• Temporary: It is also temporary, which means that the information is stored only for a brief period, usually from a few seconds to a minute, unless an effort is made to maintain it.
• Manipulative: Unlike short -term memory, which only stores information, working memory also manipulates this information. This allows, for example, to make mental calculations by adding or subtracting numbers.

Functions of working memory

Working memory is essential for many of our daily cognitive activities. Without it, it would be very difficult to do tasks that involve maintaining and manipulating information, How to follow a conversation, read and understand a text, learn something new or solve problems. It is known to participate in the following cognitive functions:

1. Learning

It is indispensable for learning, either In a formal educational context or in our daily lives. When we learn something new, as a mathematical concept, we need to maintain relevant information in our working memory to understand and apply it.

For example, during the learning of mathematics, we are likely to remember the mathematical numbers and operations for a brief period to be able to perform calculations. Similarly, when learning a new language, working memory is in charge of retaining the new words and grammatical structures while we build and understand the sentences.

2. Language processing

Play a fundamental role in the understanding and production of language. When we listen or read a prayer, we need to remember the previous words and ideas to understand the complete meaning. Similarly, when speaking or writing, we use the working memory to plan our phrases and remember what we have already said to maintain coherence.

3. Reasoning and decision making

Working memory is also essential for our reasoning and decision making. Allows us to maintain and manipulate the necessary information to weigh different options, anticipate consequences and make informed decisions.

For example, if we are considering different options for a trip, working memory helps us compare the costs, schedules, locations and other relevant factors to make a decision.

4. Attention and concentration

Is closely related to attention. It helps us maintain concentration in a task when saving relevant information and blocking distractions.

If, for example, we are studying in a noisy environment, working memory can help us concentrate on what we are reading and keep the distractions at bay.

5. Motor and space skills

Even in tasks that may seem mainly physical, working memory plays a crucial role. When we learn a new motor skill, how to play a musical instrument or practice a sport, We need to keep the instructions in mind while we execute them.

In space tasks, such as navigating an unknown city, working memory allows us to remember the indications or reference points to find our path.

Labor memory alterations

Work memory alterations can have a significant impact on a person's life. In particular, they can hinder the ability to concentrate, follow instructions and learn new information. The malfunction of the working memory can be presented in the following neurological and psychiatric disorders:

1. Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

People with ADHD often experience problems with working memory, particularly with the ability to retain and manipulate information for brief periods of time. These difficulties can contribute to common problems in ADHD, such as lack of attention, impulsivity and difficulty in following instructions.

2. Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia has also been associated with alterations in working memory. These problems can contribute to difficulties of people with schizophrenia to concentrate, Follow a conversation or carry out daily tasks.

3. Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD)

People with tea often present Problems with the tasks that involve the manipulation of information. This can hinder social interaction and communication, since working memory is essential to understand and respond to social signals.

4. Cognitive and dementia deterioration

The deterioration of working memory is a Common sign of normal aging, But it can be particularly severe in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The loss of the ability to retain new information can be one of the first symptoms of these diseases.

5. Traumatic brain damage and stroke

Brain injuries, such as those caused by traumas or strokes, can also affect working memory, depending on the location and severity of the damage. The problems that may exist after a brain injury could hinder recovery and rehabilitation.

6. Post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Some investigations suggest that so much Chronic stress and trauma can negatively affect working memory, Although the precise mechanisms of this effect are still being investigated.

As we can see, alterations in working memory can have a significant impact on the quality of life of a person, since they can make it difficult to carry out daily tasks and the learning of new skills. However, it has also been shown that working memory can be improved through practice and training, which can offer a promising intervention way for people with these difficulties.

Short -term memory test

References

• Baddeley, a. D., Eysenck, m. W., & Anderson, M. C. (2015). "Memory". Madrid: Editorial Alliance.