Rumination mediates the relationship between neuroticism and cognitive function
Open Access
Author:
Munoz Diaz, Elizabeth
Graduate Program:
Human Development and Family Studies
Degree:
Master of Science
Document Type:
Master Thesis
Date of Defense:
None
Committee Members:
Martin John Sliwinski, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor Martin John Sliwinski, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor
Keywords:
rumination neuroticism personality cognition
Abstract:
Although recent research has found a negative association between trait neuroticism and cognition, no studies have directly examined the mechanisms that underlie this relationship. Trait rumination, the tendency to experience repetitive negative thoughts, is elevated in those who score high in neuroticism and has been associated with poor cognitive performance. This thesis investigated whether rumination, by depleting attentional resources, functions as a mediator in the negative relationship between neuroticism and cognitive performance. Three hundred-forty six adults (Mage = 49.43) completed five attention-demanding cognitive tasks (i.e., working memory, episodic memory, fluid intelligence, primary memory, and processing speed) as well as self-report measures of rumination, negative affect, and trait neuroticism. Rumination significantly mediated the relationship between trait neuroticism and cognitive performance; these results remained after accounting for negative affect. Contrary to expectations, age did not moderate these results. These findings suggest that rumination is a viable psychological mechanism through which trait neuroticism influences cognitive performance.
