Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2025
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Measurement of Neurophysiological Signals of Ignoring and Attending Processes in Attention Control
Published on: July 5, 2015
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Individual differences in attention control: A meta-analysis and re-analysis of latent variable studies
Nash Unsworth1, Ashley L Miller2, Deanna L Strayer3
1Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA. nashu@uoregon.edu.
Psychonomic Bulletin & Review
|May 20, 2024
Summary
This study confirms that attention control abilities are a significant individual differences construct. Most prior research supports a broad attention control factor linked to various cognitive functions and motivation.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Individual Differences Research
Background:
- Attention control is a key cognitive function.
- Previous research has explored individual differences in attention control with varying methodologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To meta-analyze and re-analyze prior latent variable studies.
- To assess the evidence for individual differences in broad attention control abilities.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a meta-analysis and re-analysis of 90 independent latent variable studies.
- Included over 23,000 participants.
- Examined factor structures and relationships with other cognitive abilities.
Main Results:
- 84.4% of studies found evidence for a coherent attention control factor (average loading .51).
- This factor relates to working memory, fluid intelligence, processing speed, and more.
- Attention control comprises sub-components (restraining, constraining, sustaining) under a higher-order factor.
Conclusions:
- Attention control is a broad, important individual differences construct.
- Results are robust across measurement considerations.
- Provides strong evidence for attention control as a distinct cognitive ability.
