Spontaneous mind wandering impairs model-based decision making.

ABSTRACT:

Background

If our attention wanders to other thoughts while making a decision, then the decision might not be directed towards future goals, reflecting a lack of model-based decision making, but may instead be driven by habits, reflecting model-free decision making. Here we aimed to investigate if and how model-based versus model-free decision making is reduced by trait spontaneous mind wandering.

Methods and findings

We used a sequential two-step Markov decision task and a self-report questionnaire assessing trait spontaneous and deliberate mind wandering propensity, to investigate how trait mind wandering relates to model-free as well as model-based decisions. We estimated parameters of a computational neurocognitive dual-control model of decision making. Analyzing estimat

SUBMITTER: Liu S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9879536 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature