Skip to content
    Psychology GCSE

    Interference

    What Interference means in Psychology GCSE, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel.

    Definitions of Interference

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Interference in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    Occurs when one memory disrupts another, with proactive interference being when an older memory disrupts a newer one and retroactive interference being when a newer memory disrupts an older one.
    AQA · Memory
    An interference task, counting backwards in threes from a random number, was used to prevent rehearsal of the trigrams.
    Pearson Edexcel · Topic 2: Memory - 2.2 Studies (study guide)

    Topics that use Interference

    Related terms

    Using Interference in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Psychology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Psychology GCSE terms