Episodic Buffer in Human Memory

Illustrated by Geoffrey W. Sutton with
ChaptGPT 2025

The episodic buffer is a component of the working memory model introduced by Baddeley (2000) to address limitations in earlier conceptualizations of working memory. It serves as a temporary storage system that integrates information from different sources, including the phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad, and long-term memory, allowing for the creation of coherent episodes (Baddeley, 2000). This integration process enables complex cognitive functions such as language comprehension, problem-solving, and the binding of information into meaningful sequences.

The episodic buffer is hypothesized to support conscious awareness of information and facilitate retrieval of multi-modal memory representations. For instance, research suggests that individuals can use the episodic buffer to combine verbal and visual details, helping them reconstruct past experiences in a cohesive manner (Baddeley, 2012). Neuropsychological studies have further linked the episodic buffer to hippocampal functioning, indicating its role in bridging short-term and long-term memory storage (Nee et al., 2008).

RELATED POSTS

SCOPES model Memory fits within the C = Cognitive Dimension

Post Author

Geoffrey W. Sutton, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Evangel University, holds a master’s degree in counseling and a PhD in psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. His postdoctoral work encompassed education and supervision in forensic and neuropsychology. As a licensed psychologist, he conducted clinical and neuropsychological evaluations and provided psychotherapy for patients in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and private offices. During his tenure as a professor, Dr. Sutton taught courses on psychotherapy, assessment, and research. He has authored over one hundred publications, including books, book chapters, and articles in peer-reviewed psychology journals. His website is https://suttong.com

ResearchGate articles

Amazon Author Page

Google Author Page

Facebook Author Page

References

Baddeley, A. (2000). The episodic buffer: A new component of working memory? Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 4(11), 417-423. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1364-6613(00)01538-2

Baddeley, A. (2012). Working memory: Theories, models, and controversies. Annual Review of Psychology, 63, 1-29. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-120710-100422

Nee, D. E., Berman, M. G., Moore, K. S., & Jonides, J. (2008). Neural mechanisms of proactive interference resolution. NeuroImage, 39(1), 303-312. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2007.08.004