Cognitive and non-cognitive variables influencing age-related effect of mind wandering across the adult life span

Erika Borella (), Michela Zavagnin (), Lucia Ronconi and Rossana Beni
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Erika Borella: University of Padova
Michela Zavagnin: University of Padova
Lucia Ronconi: University of Padova
Rossana Beni: University of Padova

European Journal of Ageing, 2022, vol. 19, issue 2, No 10, 277-292

Abstract: Abstract This study aimed to assess the effects of aging on mind wandering (MW) using a sustained attention to response task (SART) with a low cognitive demand. All task-unrelated thoughts (TUTs) and the subcategory of stimulus-independent thoughts (SITUTs) were examined across the adult life span. The relationship between MW, cognitive variables (attention, inhibition, working memory), and non-cognitive variables (mindfulness, psychological well-being, and anxiety) was investigated. The sample included 210 healthy participants from 20 to 89 years old. The overall results showed few or no age-related changes in both TUTs and SITUTs. Path analyses revealed that the effect of age on both TUTs and SITUTs was only indirect and mediated by attentional resources, as well as by some aspects of psychological well-being (i.e., emotional competence), which had a direct effect, however. These findings raise doubts about any age-related differences between young and older adults’ MW. Changes in MW across the adult life span are thus discussed along with the method and tasks used to assess it and different variables affecting it.

Keywords: Mind wandering; Life span; Working memory; Attention; Inhibition (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1007/s10433-021-00637-3

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