Reply to: Memory is the result of learning and the new information acquired in the process; this can happen from a single exposure to an experience, or from repetitive information, actions, or experiences (Gazzaniga et al., 2019). The encoding, or processing of information, can happen at multiple stages. Acquisition usually occurs in the initial stages of processing, where sensory information is selected for further use and becomes utilized in short term or working memory (Gazzaniga et al., 2019). Consolidation is a type of encoding that typically happens when information is worked through short term memory and is passed along for future use; consolidation is the process of forming new neural connections, strengthening old connections, or modifying connections in order to accommodate new learning (Gazzaniga et al., 2019). Once memories are acquired and consolidated, they will be stored in various parts of the brain for safekeeping. If memories are stored correctly, they will be available for retrieval later and will provide the relevant information for making decisions or guiding behavior. Other nondeclarative memor
ies include conditioned responses, non-associated behaviors and perceptual priming. Perceptual priming, on an implicit level, primes the brain to think about a concept, image, sound, or fact, which then increases accuracy with recognizing the same or similar stimulus at a later time (Gazzaniga et al., 2019). Research has shown that declarative and non-declarative memory operates on two different systems, allowing implicit responses from perceptual priming to occur without conscious knowledge or when there is damage to portions of the brain which control semantic memory (Gazzaniga et al., 2019). Conditioned responses, as well as non-associated behaviors like habituation and sensitization, are unconscious adjustments in behavior to a stimulus (Gazzaniga et al., 2019). A person may become conditioned to crave coffee every morning at 9 am, for example, or become habituated (or desensitized) to the sound of their car engine and therefore not notice it as they drive. Finally, sensitization is an adaptive behavior that would cause a person to shield their eyes from the sun, for example, in order to avoid harming themselves.