The key to the observation–inflation effect: the simulation degree of action videos vs. verb–noun phrases

ABSTRACT

The observation–inflation effect occurs when individuals produce false memories of having performed actions after they observe others performing the same actions. In the present study, two experiments were conducted based on the simulation properties of memory materials of different memory stages to explore the role motion simulation plays in the observation–inflation effect by manipulating the familiarity of verb–noun phrases and the integrity of videos of others’ actions. The completeness of the action video has a significant impact on the observing-inflation effect rather than the degree of simulation of the gerund phrase. The results confirm the hypothesis of action simulation and show that the action simulation degree of others may be key to triggering the observation–inflation effect.

KEYWORDS:

• Action memory
• false memory
• observation–inflation effect
• motion simulation
• simulation degree

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available at Https: //mfr.osf.io/render?url = https%3A%2F%2Fosf.io%2Femku4%2Fdownload

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).