Publication Date

Summer 2016

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Advisor

Cary Feria

Keywords

Attention, Mindfulness, Multiple Object Tracking, Neurofeedback

Subject Areas

Cognitive psychology; Neurosciences

Abstract

Attention determines what we selectively perceive out of all available stimuli. The multiple-object tracking paradigm is a way of examining divided attention for object tracking in a complex visual scene. Mindfulness is a broad term for a set of diverse and specific methods for distinct attentional engagement and is one technique for increasing visual attentional ability and decreasing distractibility. Neurofeedback can be a way of enhancing mindfulness training for novice participants. This study examined the relationship between attention and mindfulness with neurofeedback through performance on a multiple-object tracking task and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. We examined the effectiveness of using a brief mindfulness session to bring about state mindfulness and cognitive enhancement. All participants (N=90) performed a session of the multiple-object tracking task before and after either a mindfulness or relaxation intervention. Additionally half of the participants in the mindfulness training condition received neurofeedback. Results demonstrated that a single, brief mindfulness training session with neurofeedback was successful in increasing divided attention ability and was sufficient for bringing about an increased mindfulness state. An effect of mindfulness without neurofeedback on attention was not found. Results have implications for the use of brief mindfulness practices in a laboratory setting that could be applicable to a real world setting and the feasibility of neurofeedback as a mindfulness training tool.

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