Which of the following statements best describes proactive interference?

A. Having majored in French history in the 1960's, Ken finds it difficult to grasp new discoveries about Marie Antoinette

B. While learning Italian, Lucy realizes she is losing her ability to speak Spanish.

C. Carter can't concentrate on geometry because he's thinking about asking Gina out on a date

D. Lauren can't recall the name of her new math teacher.

I picked B, because proactive interference happens when previously learned material interferes with new material. Is my thinking correct or wrong?

Your definition is right, but the choice is wrong. B is retroactive interference, the second task interfering with the first. A is the answer.

I agree.

http://www.alleydog.com/glossary/definition.php?term=Proactive+Interference

Thanks for your help

You're welcome.

That answer is wrong. Just took the test

Your thinking is correct! Proactive interference refers to when previously learned information interferes with the ability to remember new information. In option B, Lucy is learning Italian, and she realizes that it is interfering with her ability to speak Spanish. This aligns with the definition of proactive interference, making option B the best choice.