Effects of state anxiety on performance using a task-switching paradigm: An investigation of attentional control theory
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/pbr.16.6.1112
URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/pbr.16.6.1112
archive: archived pipeline: cataloged verified
Abstract
Empirical test of attentional control theory using task-switching. State anxiety increased switch costs, consistent with impaired attentional control. Supports the claim that anxiety specifically impairs shifting between task sets.
Summary
Tests Attentional Control Theory (Eysenck et al., 2007) using a task-switching paradigm. Fifty-nine undergraduates classified as low- or high-anxious by the STAI performed cued and uncued arithmetic problems of low or high rule complexity in either task-switching or non-task-switching blocks. As predicted, high state anxiety produced larger performance costs specifically in conditions placing greater demand on attentional control (task switching, high complexity, no cue), supporting ACT's claim that anxiety impairs the shifting and inhibition functions of the central executive.
Key finding
State anxiety impairs the shifting function of the central executive: high-anxious individuals show disproportionate performance costs in task-switching and high-complexity, uncued conditions, consistent with Attentional Control Theory.
Methodology
Mixed factorial experiment crossing anxiety group (low/high state anxiety per STAI) with task-switching condition, rule complexity (low/high arithmetic), and cue presence/absence. Performance was measured on cued and uncued arithmetic blocks; state anxiety was measured with the short-form STAI state scale.
Sample size: N=59 undergraduates
Quality score: 5 / 5