Every one of us is born with a range of perceptual and memory abilities. There are four distinct types of memory that can reflect a particular biochemical imbalance: working memory, immediate memory, verbal memory, and visual memory.
Working memory involves the ability to concentrate quickly or take in information or stimuli that are verbally or visually presented. When a stimulus is presented to the brain, your working memory either quickly records it or doesn't. Working memory involves bringing together old and current data. If you are overloaded with the latter, the brain will dump older memories to make room for new ones. Long-term memory correlates with working memory: if you can absorb information initially, you will be also be able to store it. The functions of working memory include motor control, concentration, problem-solving skills, planning, retention of knowledge, and initial registration, all of which are regulated by the frontal lobes and the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Immediate memory is a short-term effect -- lasting only about thirty seconds -- that occurs when a stimulus is presented but before it has been recorded in long-term memory. It is difficult to distinguish where working memory ends an immediate memory begins. Immediate memory comprises both verbal and visual memories. It is helpful for mastering simple daily activities and is an indication of one's learning capabilities and basic alertness. Immediate memories are briefly stored in the parietal lobes, which are regulated by acetylcholine.
Verbal memory is necessary for storing sounds, words, and stories. For example, listening to a lecture and later recalling exactly what was said demonstrates good verbal memory. The temporal lobes, which are regulated by GABA, store memories of written and verbally presented information.
Visual memory involves the ability to absorb and retain information such as faces, colors, shapes, designs, symbols, and your surroundings. People who can drive to a location after having been there only once demonstrate excellent visual memory. The serotonin-producing occipital lobes control visual and sensory training and connect with the immediate memory of the parietal lobes.
A memory begins with the reception of information controlled by the parietal lobes and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. If brain speed is optimum, the memory will be passed on and processed in the frontal lobes, which are powered by dopamine. Memory decline starts at the beginning: if we cannot receive information, we cannot process or store it. Signs of memory loss are therefore characterized by slowed brain speed and abnormal power and metabolism. Identifying what your particular memory problem stems from is as easy as identifying your nature. Not surprisingly, the two are closely linked.