Odor memory: Taking stock.

Abstract

This review discusses the state of knowledge in odor memory within the framework of mainstream memory research. Experimental findings are structured around prevailing theoretical distinctions in the study of memory proper, including semantic-episodic memory and implicit-explicit memory. Unaided odor-identification performance is found to be approximately 40%-50% of the total stimulus set presented to Ss, although performance approaches the limit of memorial discrimination if Ss are given label training with feedback. Odor identification is conceptualized as a task with 3 major components and where performance falls on a continuum ranging from nonverbal feelings of familiarity to specific object names. Odor recognition is shown to be relatively stable over long retention intervals, and more than 1 explanation can account for this effect. It is also suggested that name recognition may contribute to the results obtained in odor-recognition experiments. Several possible avenues for future research on both explicit and implicit memory for odors are mentioned. It is concluded that although much is known already about memory for odors, many questions still remain unanswered or unasked.

Cited by (4)

1. Odor memory: Review and analysis
   Herz, Rachel S., Engen, Trygg · 1996 · Psychonomic Bulletin & Review
2. Lateralization of olfactory processes
   Royet, J.-P. · 2004 · Chemical Senses
3. A review on the neural bases of episodic odor memory: from laboratory-based to autobiographical approaches
   Saive, Anne-Lise, Royet, Jean-Pierre, Plailly, Jane · 2014 · Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience
4. Reactivating memories during sleep by odors: odor specificity and associated changes in sleep oscillations
   Rihm, Julia S., Diekelmann, Susanne, Born, Jan, Rasch, Björn · 2014 · Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience

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