What happens in the brain when your mind wanders?

Summary

People spend a significant amount of time mind wandering (or having thoughts unrelated to the task at hand). The purpose of this study is to examine the differences between intentionality (whether someone intentionally thinks about something) and meta-awareness (whether someone notices it) in task-unrelated thought. In the experiment, you will be asked to complete a very simple attention task on a computer. Occasionally, you will be interrupted and asked a couple of questions about your attention and thoughts. The experiment takes around 2-3 hours.

You may be asked to wear a cap with electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors to record your brain activity during the task. You may also be asked to complete a short questionnaire before or after the experiment.

The University of Calgary Conjoint Faculties Research Ethics Board has approved this research study.

Eligibility

Currently recruiting participants: Yes

Eligible ages: 18 to 35

Accepts healthy participants: Yes

Inclusion criteria:

You are eligible to participate if you
1) are able to read, write and speak English
2) have no history of neurological disorders/problems (e.g. brain injury)
3) have normal range vision

Participate

Fill out the following form if you want to participate in this research

Method of contact

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Additional information

Contact information

Melih Keskin

Principal investigator:

Julia Kam

Clinical trial:

No

REB-ID:

REB25-2086