![]() ![]() Additionally, working memory suffers due to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. ![]() Working memory deficits are common in individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities (LD), Traumatic Brain Injury, Autism/Asperger, etc. finding the right word when you need it, comprehending speech) as well as the ability to commit new information to long-term memory storage. Weak working memory also negatively affects verbal ability (e.g. People with working memory deficits have selective attention problems, as it is very hard for them to extract relevant data and ignore/block unrelated information ("noise"). When working memory is weak, it is difficult to stay focused, ignore distractions, plan your next steps, remember instructions, and start and finish tasks. However, in some individuals, the ability of working memory can be severely compromised. While working memory capacity varies from person to person, most adults can hold data sets consisting of 5-9 items in their minds. Working memory develops gradually during childhood and is one of the first cognitive functions to decline as we age. Working memory is closely related to attention, executive control, and learning. In other words, working memory is similar to the Random Access Memory (RAM) in your computer: It is used to load and quickly retrieve multiple units of data relevant for the current action or conditions. This active dual processing was made possible with the help of your working memory. Once you found the phone you easily retrieve the needed number. Imagine that you have just looked up a phone number that you want to call and are now actively searching for your phone all the while keeping that number in mind. Simply put, working memory is the ability to keep a set of previously learned or newly acquired information in your mind for a short period of time and to be able to use this information in problem solving and task completion. It also helps us navigate and accomplish tasks in an increasingly complex world without getting confused or overwhelmed. Working memory helps us absorb and process the enormous amount of information that we are bombarded with every day. Few other cognitive functions have received as much attention in recent neurological research as working memory.
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