Distraction does not impair memory during intoxication: support for the attention-allocation model
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Updated: Nov 3, 2026
A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
Published on: July 16, 2015
1Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90089-1061, USA.
Objective:
This study was developed to offer direct support for the Josephs and Steele attention-allocation model. The model suggests that alcohol consumption limits attentional resources to the most salient environmental cue.
Method:
Forty men participated in a study designed to test the model using measures of memory and attention during ethanol intoxication. Twenty completed memory tests in the presence of a background distractor and 20 completed the tests without a distractor, in two sessions: once while intoxicated (80 mg/dl BAC) and once while sober.
Results:
A significant Distraction x Intoxication interaction indicated that ethanol-related differences in recall occurred only in the absence of distraction. Distraction impaired subjects only when they were sober.
Conclusions:
Results support the Josephs and Steele attention-allocation model. Findings are discussed in broad terms of an individual's cognitive capabilities when intoxicated and in terms of risk for later alcoholism.
