negative transfer

noun

, Psychology.

1. the obstruction of or interference with new learning because of previous learning, as when a U.S. tourist in England learns to drive on the left side of the road.

Word History and Origins

Origin of negative transfer¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Without transference of this sort, or without a negative transfer, he would not even listen to the physician and to his arguments.

From Project Gutenberg

Suggestibility in his sense is nothing more than an inclination to transference, bounded so narrowly that there is no room for any negative transfer.

From Project Gutenberg

The researchers investigated what is called “negative transfer”—a cognitive process by which a learned association between cue and outcome inhibits any further learning about that cue.

From US News

Negative transfer is a good example of the uncertainty principle at work.

From US News

This is termed the “negative transfer” effect.

From US News