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Tracking Distraction.

Authors :: Franklin MS
Mrazek MD
Anderson CL
Johnston C
Smallwood J
Kingstone A
Schooler JW
Source :: Journal of attention disorders [J Atten Disord] 2017 Apr; Vol. 21 (6), pp. 475-486. Date of Electronic Publication: 2016 Jul 27.
Publication Year :: 2017
Abstract: Objective: Although earlier work has shown a link between mind-wandering and ADHD symptoms, this relationship has not been further investigated by taking into account recent advances in mind-wandering research.<br />Method: The present study provides a comprehensive assessment of the relationship between mind-wandering and ADHD symptomatology in an adult community sample ( N = 105, 71 females, M age = 23.1) using laboratory measures and experience sampling during daily life.<br />Results: Mind-wandering and detrimental mind-wandering were positively associated with ADHD symptoms. Meta-awareness of mind-wandering mediated the relationship between ADHD symptomatology and detrimental mind-wandering, suggesting that some of the negative consequences can be ameliorated by strategies that facilitate meta-awareness. Interestingly, participants with low ADHD scores showed a positive relationship between detrimental mind-wandering and useful mind-wandering; however, participants with high ADHD scores failed to engage in this type of "strategic" mind-wandering.<br />Conclusion: These results provide new insights into the relationship between ADHD symptomatology and mind-wandering that could have important clinical implications.