What term describes the loss of the ability to recall previously learned information due to more recent information?

The term that defines the loss of the ability to recall previously learned information due to the introduction of more recent information is retroactive interference. This phenomenon occurs when new information interferes with the retrieval of old memories. In other words, as new memories are formed, they can disrupt the recall process of earlier learned information, making it difficult for an individual to access that knowledge.

For instance, if someone learns a new phone number, it might become challenging for them to recall an older number they had memorized earlier. This illustrates how new information can overshadow or disrupt the retrieval of previously established memories. Retroactive interference emphasizes the dynamic and sometimes conflicting nature of memory storage and retrieval processes in the brain.

The other terms refer to different memory issues. Proactive interference involves prior knowledge hindering the formation or retrieval of new memories. Repression is a defense mechanism that blocks out painful or traumatic memories rather than information based on recency. Amnesia refers to a general loss of memory, which can occur from various causes but does not specifically relate to the interference of recent information affecting older information.