Producing names with a bizarre voice does not improve memory for face–name pairs

Abstract

Most social interactions require correct identification of an individual’s face and name; however, this can be a rather challenging task. The present study examined whether a mnemonic proposed by pop-culture can enhance memory for face–name associations. More specifically, we tested whether vocalizing names in an unusual voice can improve subsequent memory for an individual’s face and name. The memory literature has examples of enhanced memory for items that require bizarre mental imagery as opposed to normal mental imagery, and separate evidence of enhanced memory for items that are said aloud, as opposed to items read silently. However, it is unclear whether bizarre production of names compared to regular production of names will lead to enhanced memory for faces, names, or face–name associations. In the present study, participants studied face–name pairs while vocalizing the names in a bizarre voice or a normal voice. Memory for face–name associations was tested using cued recall tests and a recognition test. The results suggest that using a bizarre voice disrupts memory performance compared to using a normal voice. Contrary to suggestions in pop-culture, the production of a bizarre voice appears to make it harder to associate face–name pairs during learning.