Associative Activation as a Mechanism Underlying False Memory Formation

We recently made the case that associative activation is a viable mechanism underlying false memory formation and hence also false memory formation in psychopathology. In a recent issue of Clinical Psychological Science, Tryon argued that our description of associative activation did not meet the criteria of causation and explanatory value in order to qualify as a mechanism. In this commentary, we explain why we disagree with Tryon. Many studies focused on associative activation and false memory creation. We believe that these studies provide good arguments for associative activation as a likely causal antecedent in the production of false memories.