Kim changed her mobile number; and got a new number. When some-one asked her new number she could recall only three digits of her new mobile number. The cause behind it may be :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option 2: Proactive Interference. Here's why:

*   **Why Proactive Interference is Correct:** Proactive interference occurs when old information interferes with the ability to learn or recall new information. In Kim's case, her *old* mobile number is interfering with her ability to recall her *new* mobile number. The old number is already firmly established in her memory, and this pre-existing memory is blocking or hindering the encoding and retrieval of the new number. Because the old number is similar in structure (being a phone number), it creates a strong interference effect.

*   **Why Option 1 (Decay) is Incorrect:** Decay refers to the fading of memory traces over time. While some forgetting might occur naturally, the fact that Kim *just* got the new number suggests that the primary issue isn't simply the passage of time causing the memory to fade. Decay is more relevant for information that hasn't been accessed or rehearsed for a long period.

*   **Why Option 3 (Suppression) is Incorrect:** Suppression is a conscious effort to forget or block out unwanted memories. There's no indication in the scenario that Kim is deliberately trying to forget her new number. Suppression is a deliberate act, and the problem here seems to be an unintentional memory interference.

*   **Why Option 4 (Regression) is Incorrect:** Regression, in a psychological context, typically refers to reverting to earlier stages of development or behavior in response to stress or anxiety. This concept is not relevant to the scenario of forgetting a phone number.