Interference scores have inadequate concurrent and convergent validity: Should we stop using the flanker, Simon, and...

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Investigated the relationship between laboratory measures of inhibitory control and self-report measures of self-control and impulsivity.
• Explored whether extensive experience in self-control-requiring activities influences cognitive control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the correlations between nonverbal interference tasks and trait scales of self-control and impulsivity.
• To determine predictors of cognitive interference, including fluid intelligence, bilingualism, and lifestyle factors.

Main Methods:

• 201 college undergraduates completed four nonverbal interference tasks (Simon, spatial Stroop, vertical Stroop, flanker).
• Participants also completed trait scales for self-control and impulsivity.
• Regression analyses were used to identify predictors of composite interference scores.

Main Results:

• Fluid intelligence and sex were significant predictors of the composite interference measure.
• Bilingualism, music training, video gaming, mindfulness/meditation, self-control, impulsivity, SES, and physical exercise were not significant predictors.
• No significant correlation was found between common laboratory measures of inhibitory control and self-reported measures of self-control or impulsivity.

Conclusions:

• Laboratory measures of inhibitory control and self-report measures appear to assess different constructs.
• Bilingualism, mindfulness, video gaming, and music training showed weak, inconsistent effects on interference control.
• Flanker, Simon, and spatial Stroop tasks are not recommended as measures of domain-general inhibitory control.