Which of the following is an example of selective retention?

Selective retention refers to the psychological process where an individual is more likely to remember information that aligns with their preferences, beliefs, or interests while discarding other information that they find less relevant or appealing.

Choosing the option that involves phone numbers that spell out the company name is a prime example of selective retention because it leverages a technique that aids memory. When phone numbers are designed to be memorable by using letters that correspond to the numbers—creating a word or meaningful phrase—consumers are more likely to recall the number. This aligns well with the concept of selective retention, as it makes the information stand out and easier to remember for individuals who resonate with that particular branding or message.

In contrast, the other options don't directly illustrate the concept of selective retention in the same way. Using complex numerical codes, creating patterns for memorability, and providing lengthy descriptions are more about information presentation or retention techniques rather than focusing on how personal preferences affect the recall of specific information. They do not directly connect with how consumers might selectively remember relevant information over less relevant details.