Procedural memory

Procedural memory is a type of long-term memory and implicit memory. It is responsible for knowing how to do things, also known as motor skills. As such, it stores information on how to perform certain procedures, such as walking, talking and riding a bike.

Overview

Procedural memory is created through procedural learning or, repeating a complex activity over and over again until all of the relevant neural systems work together to automatically produce the activity. Implicit procedural learning is essential for the development of any motor skill or cognitive activity.

Characteristics

Procedural memory is a subset of implicit memory, sometimes referred to as non-declarative memory. Unlike declarative memory, which involves conscious recollection of facts and events, procedural memory does not require conscious thought and is not declarative.

Neuroanatomy

Procedural memory has been associated with the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and the motor cortex – all areas involved in motor control. The prefrontal cortex is also involved in the formation of new procedural memories.

Clinical significance

Procedural memory can be affected in a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and schizophrenia.

See also

• Memory
• Cognitive psychology
• Neuropsychology

References

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Procedural_memory

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  A chess set, representing procedural memory in learning chess.
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  A pursuit rotor task, used to study motor learning.
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  Diagram of cerebral lobes, involved in various brain functions.
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  Sidney Crosby, an example of procedural memory in sports.
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  Diagram of basal ganglia, important for procedural memory.
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  The cerebellum, crucial for motor control and procedural learning.
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  Dopamine pathways, involved in reward and learning processes.
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  PET scan of a normal brain, showing typical brain activity.
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  PET scan of an Alzheimer's brain, showing reduced activity.
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  Image related to Huntington's disease, affecting procedural memory.