The automaticity of complex motor skill learning as a function of attentional focus

Abstract

The present experiment was designed to test the predictions of the constrained-action hypothesis. This hypothesis proposes that when performers utilize an internal focus of attention (focus on their movements) they may actually constrain or interfere with automatic control processes that would normally regulate the movement, whereas an external focus of attention (focus on the movement effect) allows the motor system to more naturally self-organize. To test this hypothesis, a dynamic balance task (stabilometer) was used with participants instructed to adopt either an internal or external focus of attention. Consistent with earlier experiments, the external focus group produced generally smaller balance errors than did the internal focus group and responded at a higher frequency indicating higher confluence between voluntary and reflexive mechanisms. In addition, probe reaction times (RTs) were taken as a measure of the attention demands required under the two attentional focus conditions. Consistent with the hypothesis, the external focus participants demonstrated lower probe RTs than did the internal focus participants, indicating a higher degree of automaticity and less conscious interference in the control processes associated with the balance task.

Letter to the editor concerning the article “Performance of gymnastics skill benefits from an external focus of attention” by Abdollahipour, Wulf, Psotta & Nieto (2015)

“…In similar fashion to many previous studies (see 53 Wulf, 2013), the research design compared performances when participants employed 54 internal, external and control (i.e., no instruction) foci. Accordingly, support was found for 55 the constrained action hypothesis (Wulf, McNevin, & Shea, 2001) factors, we believe that caution must be raised when accounting for the mechanistic 63 explanation for these findings and when proposing implications for applied coaching practice.…”

The Effects of a Home-Based Instructional Program Aimed at Improving Frontal Plane Knee Biomechanics During a Jump-Landing Task

“…37 An external focus typically results in better motor skill performance and learning compared to an internal focus. [36][37][38] This difference is attributed to the external focus enabling a learner to rely on automatic motor processes, whereas an internal focus constrains the motor system and disrupts automatic processes. 36 Previous technique-training studies have used landing instructions that focus the learner's attention internally, 23,30 which may hamper learning.…”

“…[36][37][38] This difference is attributed to the external focus enabling a learner to rely on automatic motor processes, whereas an internal focus constrains the motor system and disrupts automatic processes. 36 Previous technique-training studies have used landing instructions that focus the learner's attention internally, 23,30 which may hamper learning. 31 Therefore, the success of technique-training programs may be improved by providing an external focus.…”

The effect of attentional focus in balancing tasks: A systematic review with meta-analysis

“…This hypothesis states that external focus encourages automatic information processing while internal focus hinders the process (Park, et al, 2015;Wulf, McNevin, et al, 2001). Thus, external focus of attention can promote to faster postural perturbations, enhancing a balance performance and learning in conjunction with more automatic motor control processes than internal focus condition (Wulf, McNevin, et al, 2001). …”