Context Effect

Definition

The context effect refers to how the context (or environment) in which something is experienced can impact perception and recall of the event or information.

Analogy

Imagine listening to a song at a fun party versus during a sad breakup - even though it's the same song, your perception and memory of it will be influenced by where and when you heard it.

Related terms

Mood-Congruent Memory: This is when current mood cues memories consistent with that mood. If you're happy, you're more likely to remember happy times.

State-Dependent Memory: This refers to better recall of specific episodes or information when one's physical state is similar during encoding and retrieval stages - like remembering what you studied while drinking coffee better if you also drink coffee during the exam!

Priming: This involves unconscious activation of certain associations, predisposing one's perception, memory, or response.