Repetition and depth of processing

Abstract

This paper is an empirical and theoretical critique of the depth-of-processing view (Craik & Lockhart, Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 1972, 11, 671-684). Three new experiments demonstrate that repetition at the phonemic depth of processing does facilitate memory, regardless of whether the repetitions are massed or distributed and regardless of whether the dependent variable is uncued recall, cued recall, or recognition. Previous studies reporting null effects of repetition are reviewed and called into question. These results, combined with logical shortcomings in the principle that deeper processing facilites memory, imply that the current view of depth of processing is not valid as a scientific theory, explanation, or description of the available data. © 1977 Academic Press, Inc. All rights reserved.