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Updated: Jan 10, 2026

A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
Published on: July 16, 2015
Investigating the mediating role of executive function in the relationship between sleep disturbance and mind
Yasaman Razavian1, Motahareh Gholami Hosnaroudi2
1Department of Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran. yasamanrazavian@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Mind wandering can interfere with cognitive functions like working memory and reading comprehension. Research shows that mind wandering can lead to perseverative cognition, which can have negative effects on mental health. Previous findings have suggested that sleep disturbance may lead to mind wandering. The present study further investigated the relationship between sleep disturbance and mind wandering, with the mediating role of executive functions (self-organization/problem-solving, self-restraint/inhibition), using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale, and Mind Wandering Questionnaire (n = 227). The results of Structural Equation Modelling indicated that the total effect (p = 0.001) and direct effect (p = 0.006) of sleep disturbance and mind wandering were significant, but the indirect effect (p = 0.536) was not significant; therefore, executive function did not mediate the relationship between sleep disturbance and mind wandering. This finding highlights the importance of addressing sleep disturbance in efforts to reduce maladaptive mind wandering.
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