Media multitasking is linked to attentional errors, mind wandering and automatised response to stimuli without full conscious processing

Previous findings on media multitasking, sustained attention and inhibitory control have been mixed with some studies linking heavy media multitasking with impaired sustained attention and inhibitory control whereas others have failed to find any relationship. This study examined the relationships between these factors using a three-state attentional disengagement model that focuses on transient aspect of attention. A sample of 238 participants completed a media use questionnaire and a Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART) with mind-wandering probes. They also completed the Barratt Impulsivity Scale and Boredom Proneness Scales. Heavier media multitasking was associated with higher rates of omission and commission errors and greater response variability in the SART. Heavier media multitaskers tended to mind wander more without awareness rather than with awareness, suggesting a more progressed form of attentional disengagement during the SART. They also made more anticipatory responses that suggest automatic responses to task stimuli without fully processing the stimuli. Higher media use scores were associated with greater self-reported attentional impulsivity and boredom proneness. Media multitasking was not linked to perceived difficulty or interestingness of the task. Taken together, these results provide evidence that heavy media multitasking is linked to poorer sustained attention and inhibitory control.

Automated summary

Previous findings on the relationship between media multitasking, sustained attention, and inhibitory control have been inconsistent. This study utilized a three-state attentional disengagement model to examine these relationships and found that heavier media multitasking was associated with poorer sustained attention and inhibitory control. The findings also revealed that heavier media multitaskers were more likely to mind wander and make automatic responses during a task. Additionally, higher media use scores were related to higher levels of attentional impulsivity and boredom proneness.