When negative images intrude: Study could help characterize the ability to resist everyday distractions

When negative images intrude: Study could help characterize the ability to resist everyday distractions

The world is full of distractions, like intrusive memories, worries about the future and reminders of things to do.

Negative Distractions Most Disrupt Attention and Linger in Memory

A new study reveals that upsetting distractions significantly impair our ability to sustain attention and also linger more strongly in memory. Researchers tested this by having participants perform a 10-minute visual attention task while emotionally charged images appeared in the background.