The Decay Theory of Memory suggests that memories fade and become less accessible over time if they are not reinforced or retrieved. According to this theory, forgetting occurs because the neural connections that represent a memory gradually weaken over time.

One example that supports the Decay Theory is the phenomenon of "transience." Transience refers to the gradual deterioration of memories over time. For instance, think about a time when you learned a new skill or studied for an exam. If you don't practice or review that skill or information for an extended period, you may find that your memory of it becomes less vivid and accurate.

Another example can be found in the forgetting curve, which was proposed by Hermann Ebbinghaus. Ebbinghaus conducted experiments to measure how well he remembered nonsense syllables over time. He found that forgetting happens rapidly within the first few hours or days after learning and then levels off. This pattern suggests that memories decay and become less accessible over time.

While the Decay Theory provides a useful framework for understanding forgetting, it is important to note that memory decay is not the only factor that influences forgetting. Other factors, such as interference from new information or retrieval failure, can also contribute to forgetting.

References:

1. Ebbinghaus, H. (1913). Memory: A Contribution to Experimental Psychology. Teachers College, Columbia University.
2. Anderson, M. C., & Neely, J. H. (1996). Interference and inhibition in memory retrieval. In E. L. Bjork & R. A. Bjork (Eds.), Memory (pp. 237-313). Academic Press.