Researchers exploring the relative influence of decay and interference on memory found that whether a list of digits was read at a slow or fast pace, items that came later in the list were more difficult to remember. This provided evidence that interference, and not decay, is the major factor in forgetting. For those who had subscribed to the decay theory of forgetting, this research points out the importance of
A)extraordinary claims.
B)ruling out rival hypotheses.
C)falsifiability.
D)replicability.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The research finding suggests that interference, not decay, is the cause of forgetting. This highlights the importance of ruling out alternative explanations or rival hypotheses to support the validity of research findings. Therefore, option B, "ruling out rival hypotheses," is the best choice.

Researchers Exploring the Relative Influence of Decay and Interference on Memory