Pshonkovskaya P., Martsinkovskaya T.D. Mind Wandering Versus Smartphone Engagement: Implications for Attentional Control and Response Times

The interplay between mind wandering and smartphone usage, and its impact on attentional networks represents a critical area of investigation within cognitive psychology and neuroscience. Amidst growing concern, research suggests a nuanced relationship between these factors, challenging the assumption of a straightforward negative correlation between smartphone usage and attentional performance. Methods: This study employed a sample of 80 participants, randomized into four distinct groups to examine the effects of mind wandering and smartphone use during breaks on subsequent cognitive task performance. The groups were divided into: no break, mind wandering, smartphone use without specific activity, and smartphone use with specific activity. The Attention Network Test (ANT) was utilized to assess changes in attentional networks, focusing on errors, response times (RT), and orientation network improvements. Results & Discussion: Findings indicated that mind wandering during breaks could enhance concentration and reduce task errors, contrasting with non-goal-directed smartphone use, which was associated with increased mind wandering and task errors. Interestingly, purposeful smartphone engagement was linked to reduced RTs in the ANT. Control group (no break) comparisons underscored the cognitive advantages of taking structured breaks. The study's limitations include its small sample size and the homogeneous educational background of participants, suggesting the need for broader research to validate these findings. Conclusion: The research highlights the complex dynamics between mind-wandering, type of smartphone engagement, and attentional networks. Future studies are encouraged to expand on these findings with larger, more diverse samples and longitudinal designs to further elucidate the intricate relationships among technology use, cognitive processes, and mental health.

Key words: mind-wandering, attention, ANT, executive functions, smartphone-use, cognitive control

For citation: Pshonkovskaya, P., Martsinkovskaya, T.D. (2024). Mind Wandering Versus Smartphone Engagement: Implications for Attentional Control and Response Times. New Psychological Research, No. 1, 99–126. DOI: 10.51217/npsyresearch_2024_04_01_05

Acknowledgment

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful completion of this study. First and foremost, our appreciation goes to the participants, without whose time and dedication, this research would not have been possible. Special thanks to Prof. Tatiana Martsinkovskaya, whose insights and guidance were instrumental in shaping both the direction and execution of this research.