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Journal of Attention Disorders
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Effects of Auditory Distraction on Cognitive Processing of Young Adults

Leonard L. LaPointe

Florida State University

Gary R. Heald

Florida State University

Julie A. G. Stierwalt

Florida State University

Brett E. Kemker

Florida State University

Trisha Maurice

Auburn University

Objective: The effects of interference, competition, and distraction on cognitive processing are unclearly understood, particularly regarding type and intensity of auditory distraction across a variety of cognitive processing tasks. Method: The purpose of this investigation was to report two experiments that sought to explore the effects of types of distraction (4-talker babble; word repetition; combined 4-talker babble with word repetition) when compared to a control condition of quiet on a range of computerized measures (simple reaction time; choice reaction time; serial pattern matching; lexical decision-making; visual selective attention; response reversal and rapid visual scanning; and form discrimination) in 40 young adults (Experiment 1). Results: Few distraction effects were found on cognitive processing at the comfortable loudness level (40dB SL). In Experiment 2, statistically significant differences for choice reaction time and serial pattern matching (working memory) were found in both speed and accuracy when distractions were presented at perceived uncomfortable loudness levels (ULL) and compared with conditions of quiet and comfortable loudness level (40dB SL). Conclusion: Cognitive resource allocation models may be useful in interpreting the effects of auditory distraction on cognitive-linguistic processing, and this model may help to explain differential distraction effects in clinical populations with attention deficits. (J. of Att. Dis. 2007; 10(4) 398-409)

Key Words: distraction • reaction time • intensity • uncomfortable loudness

Journal of Attention Disorders, Vol. 10, No. 4, 398-409 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/1087054706293221
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