Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026
05:58
Using Rapid Serial Visual Presentation to Measure Set-Specific Capture, a Consequence of Distraction While Multitasking
Published on: August 29, 2018
The epidemic of distraction
Marc E Weksler1, Babette B Weksler
1Division of Geriatric Medicin, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY 10065, USA. weksler@med.cornell.edu
Gerontology
|May 11, 2012
Summary
Mobile electronic devices contribute to cognitive overload and impair multitasking abilities. Overuse of these devices leads to an
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Gerontology
Background:
- Multitasking is prevalent but often unsuccessful.
- Mobile electronic devices significantly contribute to multitasking and cognitive overload.
- The adverse effects of personal electronic devices are frequently overlooked.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the impact of mobile electronic devices on multitasking and cognitive performance.
- To highlight the negative consequences of device overuse, particularly in the elderly.
- To discuss the growing issue of 'epidemic of distraction'.
Main Methods:
- Personal observation.
- Review of scientific literature.
Main Results:
- Overuse or misuse of personal electronic devices promotes cognitive overload.
- Multitasking ability and performance are impaired across all age groups, especially in the elderly.
- Increasing device addiction poses a threat to population health and well-being.
Conclusions:
- Mobile devices offer benefits like rapid information access but have a 'dark side'.
- Cognitive overload from devices challenges overall health and well-being, particularly for the aged and infirm.
- New information gathering approaches can foster creativity if cognitive overload is avoided.
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