Effects of distraction on memory and cognition: a commentary

Abstract

This commentary is a review of the findings and ideas reported in the preceding nine articles on the effects of distraction on aspects of cognitive performance. The articles themselves deal with the disruptive effects of distraction on recall of words, objects and events, also on visual processing, category formation and other cognitive tasks. The commentary assesses the part played by “domain-general” suppression of distracting information and the “domain-specific” competition arising when tasks and distraction involve very similar material. Some forms of distraction are meaningfully relevant to the ongoing task, and Treisman’s (1964) model of selective attention is invoked to provide an account of findings in this area. Finally, individual differences to vulnerability to distraction are discussed; older adults are particularly affected by distracting stimuli although the failure to repress distraction can sometimes prove beneficial to later cognitive performance.

Reduction of environmental distraction to facilitate cognitive performance

“…The articles present state-of-the-art research providing novel insights into these key questions, and Craik's (2014) commentary constitutes an excellent critical review of this important work. In all, the contributions in this Research Topic advance our knowledge of both theoretical and applied aspects of the effects of environmental distraction on cognitive performance.…”

Situation Awareness-Oriented Patient Monitoring with Visual Patient Technology: A Qualitative Review of the Primary Research

“…Correct alerts are no longer perceived because the practitioner becomes dulled [34][35][36][37][38][39][40]. Distractions, such as background music, alarm sounds, and other cognitive and emotional stimuli, are ubiquitous in operating rooms and intensive care units and cause attention consumption, which reduces the cognitive capacity of care providers for the complex task of patient monitoring [41]. Based on the feedback of 137 anesthesiologists and certified anaesthesia nurses in a mixed qualitative and quantitative study by our research group [42], we defined the following qualities of an ideal monitor: one that does not create false alarms, operates without disturbing cables, and transmits information quickly and easily.…”

A study to explore specific stressors and coping strategies in primary dental care practice

“…43 Music is used to distract patients and reduce anxiety and there is some evidence for its effectiveness. 44 However, students who listened to music whilst studying were subject to more distraction from other sources than those who did not.…”