Multitasking behavior and its related constructs: Executive functions, working memory capacity, relational
Samsad Afrin Himi1, Markus Bühner1, Matthias Schwaighofer2
1Psychological Methods and Assessment, Department of Psychology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Leopoldstraße 13, 80802 Munich, Germany.
Cognition
|May 21, 2019
Summary
Multitasking behavior is significantly influenced by executive functions like updating and inhibition, not working memory capacity. General executive functions strongly correlate with multitasking abilities.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Cognitive abilities are known predictors of multitasking.
- However, the specific relationship between executive functions (EFs) and multitasking behavior requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the underlying cognitive constructs associated with multitasking behavior.
- To determine the contribution of specific executive functions (updating, inhibition, shifting) and other cognitive abilities (working memory capacity, relational integration, divided attention) to multitasking performance.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 202 young adults completed a comprehensive battery of cognitive tests, including measures of EFs, working memory capacity, relational integration, divided attention, and a multitasking scenario (Simultaneous Capacity).
- Hierarchical multiple regression, relative weight analyses, and structural equation modeling were employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- The study replicated previous multitasking behavior and executive function models.
- Updating, inhibition, relational integration, and divided attention were significant predictors of multitasking behavior.
- Shifting and working memory capacity did not show significant explanatory power beyond these constructs.
- A general executive function factor demonstrated a strong overlap with multitasking behavior.
Conclusions:
- Executive functions, particularly updating and inhibition, along with relational integration and divided attention, are crucial cognitive correlates of multitasking behavior.
- Multitasking behavior can be effectively positioned within an established framework of cognitive abilities, highlighting the importance of general executive function.
Keywords:
Divided attentionExecutive functionsMultitasking behaviorRelational integrationWorking memory capacityMore Related Videos
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