Everyday Multitasking Scale (EMS): Exploring the Cognitive and Temperament Correlates of Multitasking in Young People

Abstract

Multitasking is vital in the contemporary fast-paced world. Laboratory studies have consistently demonstrated this ability to be reliant on complex cognitive functions, which can be impaired in young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, everyday multitasking, differing from experimental paradigms in many aspects, is much less understood, in part, because of the lack of appropriate measures. To address this, the present study reports on the development and initial validation of the Everyday Multitasking Scale (EMS), as the first self-report measure assessing young people’s everyday multitasking performance and preference. It also explores the association between multitasking and individual variations in ADHD symptoms, temperament, and delay aversion. A convenience sample of 155 individuals aged 16–21 years (M = 19.04, SD = 1.13) completed the 27-item EMS, as well as the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (Goodman, 1997), Quick Delay Questionnaire (Clare et al., 2010), and Adult Temperament Questionnaire (Evans & Rothbart, 2007). Factor analysis identified two factors of the EMS: multitasking performance (10 items; α = .88) and multitasking preference (six items; α = .84). Bivariate correlations showed that performance was positively correlated with preference, effortful control, and orienting sensitivity, while negatively correlated with ADHD and delay aversion. Path analysis showed the direct association between ADHD and multitasking performance was fully mediated by effortful control and orienting sensitivity. These results suggested that although individuals with higher levels of ADHD symptoms reported worse multitasking performance, this may be improved by increasing orienting sensitivity and effortful control and reducing aversion to delay.