Compare and contrast the two types of amnesia.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Both retrograde and anterograde amnesia are characterized by the loss of memory due to damage to the brain regions involved in memory processing. However, while retrograde amnesia affects memories formed before the onset of the condition, anterograde amnesia affects the ability to form new memories following the onset of amnesia.

Step by step solution

01

- Define Types of Amnesia

First, the definitions of the two types of amnesia should be provided. Amnesia is the loss of memories, facts, information, and experiences. There are two common types of amnesia which are retrograde amnesia and anterograde amnesia. Retrograde amnesia is when a person cannot remember events that occurred before the onset of amnesia, while anterograde amnesia is when a person can't form new memories following the onset of amnesia.
02

- Compare the Two Types of Amnesia

The next step is to compare these two types of amnesia. Both Retrograde and Anterograde amnesia deal with the loss of memory. They both affect the ability of the individual to recall past experiences or information, and result from damage to the brain regions that are involved in memory processing. Both types can be temporary and both can be permanent, depending on the severity and cause of the memory loss.
03

- Contrast the Two Types of Amnesia

Finally, highlight the differences between the two types of amnesia. The primary difference between anterograde amnesia and retrograde amnesia lies in the direction of memory loss. While anterograde amnesia affects new experiences after the onset of the condition, retrograde amnesia affects the ability to retrieve memories formed before the onset of the condition. Furthermore, anterograde amnesia is more associated with short-term memory loss, whereas retrograde amnesia is more associated with long-term memory loss.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free