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Related Concept Videos

Working Memory01:24

Working Memory

Working memory refers to a combination of components, including short-term memory and attention, that allow an individual to hold information temporarily as we perform cognitive tasks. It is an essential cognitive function that enables the execution of complex tasks such as problem-solving, comprehension, and reasoning. Unlike short-term memory, which simply involves the storage of information for a brief period, working memory involves the active manipulation and processing of this information.
Information Processing Approach01:30

Information Processing Approach

The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...
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Cattell's Theory of Intelligence01:25

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Related Experiment Video

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A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
10:38

A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions

Published on: July 16, 2015

Working memory, fluid intelligence, and impulsiveness in heavy media multitaskers.

Meredith Minear1, Faith Brasher, Mark McCurdy

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of Wyoming, Dept. 3415, 1000 E. University Ave., Laramie, WY, 82071, USA, mereditheminear@gmail.com.

Psychonomic Bulletin & Review
|June 1, 2013
PubMed
Summary

Heavy media multitaskers (HMMs) may be more impulsive and have lower fluid intelligence. Contrary to prior research, this study found no evidence that HMMs are worse at task switching or ignoring distractions.

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Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Media Studies
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Previous research suggested heavy media multitasking impairs cognitive control.
  • Difficulties may arise from ignoring irrelevant external stimuli and internal memory representations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the cognitive differences between heavy media multitaskers (HMMs) and light media multitaskers (LMMs).
  • To test the hypothesis that HMMs exhibit deficits in attention, working memory, task switching, and fluid intelligence.

Main Methods:

  • Participants were categorized as HMMs or LMMs using the Media Multitasking Index (MMI).
  • Cognitive tasks assessed attention, working memory, task switching, and fluid intelligence.
  • Self-reported impulsivity and self-control were also measured.

Main Results:

  • HMMs reported higher impulsivity compared to LMMs.
  • HMMs performed significantly worse on measures of fluid intelligence than LMMs.
  • No significant differences were found in task switching abilities or performance on measures of attention to irrelevant stimuli.

Conclusions:

  • Heavy media multitasking is associated with increased impulsivity and lower fluid intelligence.
  • The cognitive mechanisms underlying media multitasking's effects may be more nuanced than previously thought.
  • Contrary to some prior findings, HMMs did not demonstrate deficits in task switching or filtering irrelevant information.