Definition
Retroactive interference occurs when newly learned information disrupts the recall of previously learned information. The new memory 'moves backward' to interfere with the old one.
Study Example
You memorized a list of biology terms for Monday's exam. On Tuesday, you study a list of chemistry terms. When you try to recall the biology terms on Wednesday, the chemistry terms interfere, making it harder to remember the biology ones.
Common Confusion
Retroactive interference is not about forgetting old information because it's weak; it's about new information blocking access to the old. The old memory still exists but is temporarily inaccessible.