Can induced rumination modulate attention? An experimental approach using the attention Network Test (ANT)

The efficiency of our daily performance depends on our ability to manage cognitive resources on different levels and to select relevant information for current task demands. One phenomenon that can limit the efficiency of daily performance is intrusive, repetitive negative thoughts also known as rumination. The present online study aimed at examining the influence of induced state rumination on specific networks of attention, namely alerting, orienting and executive control. Overall, 172 participants (f = 128; m = 44; Mage = 24.97, range: 18–40 years) were randomly assigned to an experimental and a control condition and then subjected to different goal-related inductions. Before and after the inductions, participants performed the Attention Network Test (ANT) to examine potential effects of rumination on participants’ performance and rated their state rumination. Mixed ANOVAs were computed to investigate whether induced goal-related state rumination had an impact on performance in the three attentional networks. In addition, to better evaluate the results, we also applied Bayesian repeated measures ANOVA’s. Overall, results showed no effect of rumination on attention regarding performance on the ANT. We discuss the present null effects and provide starting points for future research.