Spontaneous Mind Wandering and Smartphone Use.

Abstract

The current concerns theory and permanently online, permanently connected (POPC) theoretical frameworks suggest that smartphones are used to address thoughts (especially socially related ones) requiring online access that arise during mind wandering. The permanently online, permanently connected mindset proposes that online vigilance (cognitive preoccupation with the online world) is related to increased smartphone use behavior. Results from a sample of 188 U.S. undergraduates demonstrated stronger relationships for online vigilance and iPhone recorded social smartphone use with spontaneous than with deliberate mind wandering. Moreover, online vigilance mediated the relationship between spontaneous mind wandering and social smartphone use, though not for those highest in trait mindfulness. Overall, in support of the POPC framework, results suggest that online vigilance and spontaneous mind wandering are both predictors and outcomes of higher social smartphone use. Future research could explore the extent to which spontaneous mind wandering consists of online related thoughts.