AP Psychology Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Retroactive interference refers to the phenomenon where new learning interferes with the ability to recall previously learned information. When we acquire new information, it can create confusion or overwrite the connections associated with older memories, making it difficult to access those earlier memories. This concept is essential in understanding how our memory works, particularly in contexts like studying or learning sequences of information, where newly learned data can disrupt the retrieval of older material.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of memory and recall. One option describes a scenario where new learning enhances the recall of old information, which runs contrary to the idea of interference. Another option mentions the use of heuristics, which are mental shortcuts that aid in problem-solving and decision-making but are not specifically related to interference. Lastly, there is a general reference to memory recall activities, which does not define or address the specific nature of retroactive interference.