Experimentally induced encoding variability influences mnemonic discrimination: evidence from human behavioral data and global matching models

Abstract

Computational models and neurobehavioral data suggest that encoding variability affects forced-choice mnemonic discrimination. Here, we experimentally manipulated encoding variability on the forced-choice Mnemonic Similarity Task by varying stimulus repetitions during encoding. We first generated predictions from a global matching model. Behavioral data supported all predictions. Across most conditions, repetitions consistently enhanced mnemonic discrimination; however, when encoding variability was induced by 3-repetitions of the original version of the noncorresponding lure and 1-repetition of the target during learning, individuals exhibited increased interference. These findings provide further insight into theories of human memory, especially the effect of stimulus repetition on mnemonic discrimination.