Misinformation effect

/ˌmɪs.ɪn.fɔːɹˈmeɪ.ʃən ɪˈfɛkt/ noun

Definition

The tendency for post-event information to distort and alter a person's memory of the original event.

Etymology

From 'mis-' (wrong) + Latin 'informare' (to instruct) + 'effectus' (result). The effect of wrong information on memory.

Kelly Says

The misinformation effect shows how fragile memory is — a leading question after an event can literally rewrite what you remember seeing!

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