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Harnessing the wandering mind: the role of perceptual load
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 15:19 authored by Sophie ForsterSophie Forster, Nilli LaviePerceptual load is a key determinant of distraction by task-irrelevant stimuli (e.g., Lavie, N. (2005). Distracted and confused?: Selective attention under load. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 9, 75-82). Here we establish the role of perceptual load in determining an internal form of distraction by task-unrelated thoughts (TUTs or "mind-wandering"). Four experiments demonstrated reduced frequency of TUTs with high compared to low perceptual load in a visual-search task. Alternative accounts in terms of increased demands on responses, verbal working memory or motivation were ruled out and clear effects of load were found for unintentional TUTs. Individual differences in load effects on internal (TUTs) and external (response-competition) distractors were correlated. These results suggest that exhausting attentional capacity in task-relevant processing under high perceptual load can reduce processing of task-irrelevant information from external and internal sources alike.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
CognitionISSN
0010-0277Publisher
ElsevierExternal DOI
Issue
3Volume
111Page range
345-355Department affiliated with
- Psychology Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2013-07-09First Open Access (FOA) Date
2013-07-22First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2013-07-22Usage metrics
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