| Description |
Media-related technology can capture attention, leaving the user depleted of attentional resources. However, the theory of attention restoration (ART) suggests that environments with certain qualities can restore previously depleted resources. Previous research has tested ART using a variety of behavioral and perceptual tasks; however, researchers have yet to examine the predictions of ART using neurophysiological methods. I hypothesize that the default mode network, a region associated with internal thoughts, is associated with the restoration process in nature. This exploratory study evaluated the process of restoration using electroencephalography to measure potential changes in oscillatory activity after participants were exposed to a natural environment. Forty-seven (19 males) participants 18 to 37 years in age were recruited from the Salt Lake City area via flyers, advertisements, and word of mouth. In order to assess the effects of technological distraction, participants were assigned to a group that was concurrently talking on a phone during the walk or to a group that did not have any technology with them. Participants in the phone group had decreased recognition memory and increased activity at the theta frequency after the walk compared to participants who went on the walk without their phone. The data indicate that technology disrupts the process of restoration and decreases awareness of the surroundings. |
