The Development of Infant Memory

Abstract

This chapter reviews the most widely used paradigms to assess memory in human infants (e.g., operant conditioning, preferential looking, and imitation). We focus on resulting core principles of early memory development encompassing encoding speed as well as memory duration, retrieval, and flexibility. The field is well-grounded in experimental investigations; considerably less is known about potential underlying mechanisms and sources of variation contributing to ontogenetic changes in infant memory. Using a biopsychosocial framework, this chapter considers the bidirectional, interactive networks of biological, psychological, and social variables critical to early memory development. Relevant empirical work on human and non-human infants is highlighted, including examinations of neurobiology, varied experience, adversity, sleep, and socialization. Further, the present chapter discusses functional approaches to infant memory development, including evidence of developmental reversals (e.g., superior memory performance in younger, developing individuals as compared to their older counterparts). We consider how developing biological systems are adapted to meet changing ecological demands. Future directions for the field are discussed within the context of integrative approaches that can provide more holistic understanding of ontogenetic changes in memory.