Developing and Validating an Unobtrusive and Online Measure of the Attentional Component of Flow

• In Event: Attention and Divided Attention

Abstract

Little is known about the cognitive processes that result in flow. This may be due to ambiguities in conceptualizing flow and an over reliance on self-report measures. In three experimental studies, we seek to overcome these issues by developing and validating the use of secondary task response times as an unobtrusive and real-time measure of the attentional component of flow experiences. Framed by assumptions central to the synchronization theory of flow, and consistent with theoretical predictions based on a limited capacity model of attention, our results show that response times are longest under the condition of flow compared to boredom and frustration. This finding indicates that flow experiences during media exposure are characterized by a process of highly focused attention. Implications for the future development and application of flow theory in media research are discussed.

Authors

• Rene Weber, U of California - Santa Barbara

• Richard Wayne Huskey, The Ohio State University

• Britney Nicole Craighead, University of California, Santa Barbara

• Magnum Terrazas, U of California, Santa Barbara