Cognition

The present study examined a multi-faceted approach to individual differences in mind-wandering. Further, the influence of task demands as a moderator of inter-individual relationships and the distinction between intentional and unintentional mind-wandering was also examined. A large sample (N = 332) of participants completed a battery of tasks during which mind-wandering was measured with periodic thought probes. One set of tasks placed relatively high demands on attention, whereas another set of tasks placed relatively low demands on attention. We also measured individual differences in working memory capacity and attention control, along with measures of state variables like motivation, alertness, and mood. Finally, participants completed a series of questionnaires to measure various personality traits. Overall, the results reinforced the importance of taking a multi-faceted approach to mind-wandering – one that address individual differences at the cognitive, contextual, and dispositional levels, as well as the distinction between intentional and unintentional mind-wandering.

A multi-faceted approach to understanding individual differences in mind-wandering