On the relation between mind wandering, PTSD symptomology, and self-control.
Nicholaus P Brosowsky1, Alyssa C Smith2, Dan Smilek2
1Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Consciousness and Cognition
|February 13, 2022
Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is linked to spontaneous mind wandering but not deliberate mind wandering or self-control. This suggests shared mechanisms between everyday mind wandering and PTSD symptoms, including intrusive thoughts and behavioral control.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Mental Health
Background:
- Mind wandering, characterized by spontaneous or deliberate shifts in attention, is common in daily life.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) involves intrusive thoughts and difficulties with emotional and behavioral regulation.
- Self-control is crucial for inhibiting unwanted thoughts and behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between mind wandering (spontaneous and deliberate), PTSD symptomology, and self-control.
- To explore potential shared underlying mechanisms between mind wandering and PTSD.
Main Methods:
- A large-scale survey of 5,387 undergraduate students.
- Assessment of trait-level spontaneous mind wandering, deliberate mind wandering, self-control, and PTSD symptomology.
Main Results:
- PTSD symptomology showed a unique positive association with spontaneous mind wandering.
- PTSD symptomology was negatively associated with deliberate mind wandering and self-control.
- Self-control was negatively associated with PTSD symptomology.
Conclusions:
- The mechanisms of everyday mind wandering may contribute to PTSD symptoms, including traumatic intrusions.
- PTSD is associated with difficulties in inhibiting unwanted thoughts and behaviors, extending beyond cognitive control impairments.
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