One of our broad research interests relates to how our memory is influenced by motivational factors. Things like curiosity or information value can influence what we remember in both younger age and as we get older. One aspect of memory is metacognition, or knowledge of our own cognitive abilities. Our research examines the motivational factors that influence memory and metacognition across the lifespan.

Relevant publications:

• Whatley, M. C., Murphy, D. H., Silaj, K. M., & Castel, A. D. (2021). Motivated memory for what matters most: How older adults (selectively) focus on important information and events using schematic support, metacognition, and meaningful goals. In G. Sedek, T. M. Hess, & D. R. Touron (Eds.), Multiple pathways of cognitive aging: Motivational and contextual influences. 
• Whatley, M. C., & Castel, A. D. (2021). The role of metacognition and schematic support in younger and older adults’ episodic memory. Memory & Cognition.
• Murphy, D. H., Agadzhanyan, K., Whatley, M. C., & Castel, A. D. (2021). Metacognition and fluid intelligence in value-directed remembering. Metacognition and Learning, 16, 685-709.

One of our broad research interests relates to how our memory is influenced by motivational factors. Things like curiosity or information value can influence what we remember in both younger age and as we get older. One aspect of memory is metacognition, or knowledge of our own cognitive abilities. Our research examines the motivational factors that influence memory and metacognition across the lifespan.

Relevant publications:

• Whatley, M. C., Murphy, D. H., Silaj, K. M., & Castel, A. D. (2021). Motivated memory for what matters most: How older adults (selectively) focus on important information and events using schematic support, metacognition, and meaningful goals. In G. Sedek, T. M. Hess, & D. R. Touron (Eds.), Multiple pathways of cognitive aging: Motivational and contextual influences. 
• Whatley, M. C., & Castel, A. D. (2021). The role of metacognition and schematic support in younger and older adults’ episodic memory. Memory & Cognition.
• Murphy, D. H., Agadzhanyan, K., Whatley, M. C., & Castel, A. D. (2021). Metacognition and fluid intelligence in value-directed remembering. Metacognition and Learning, 16, 685-709.

Another part of our research focuses on how both younger and older adults think about aging. Research has shown that our attitudes about aging are related to how successfully we age. Specifically, older adults with more negative attitudes toward aging tend to have lower health outcomes. However, many of these attitudes are formed and develop before we reach “old age,” so targeting negative stereotypes at all ages is important for fostering successful aging.

Relevant publications:

• Whatley, M. C., & Castel, A. D. (2020). Improving expectations regarding aging in younger adults: A classroom study. Educational Gerontology, 46, 785-795.
• Whatley, M. C., Siegel, A. L. M., Schwartz, S. T., Silaj, K. M., & Castel, A. D. (2020). Younger and older adults’ mood and expectations regarding aging during COVID-19. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, 6, 1-9.