Publications [#382723] of Paul Seli

Journal Articles

1. Daniel, R; Brosowsky, N; Seli, P; Meier, ME (2025). Unconstrained Thought as an Individual-Differences Variable. Psychology of Consciousness Theory Research and Practice. [doi]
   (last updated on 2025/06/29)

   Abstract:
   This quasiexperimental study explores unconstrained thought as an individual-differences variable, examining its distinction from task-unrelated thought, its associations with performance on two sustained-attention tasks, psychopathology symptoms, effortful concentration, and topic switching, as well as its stability (i.e., test–retest reliability) across tasks. Data from 445 participants revealed that unconstrained thought, while overlapping with task-unrelated thought, offers some unique insights, particularly its relation with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms. However, relations between unconstrained thought and many of our measures fail to provide predictive power beyond task-unrelated thought. Contrary to prior hypotheses, more reports of depressive symptoms, rumination, state anxiety, and trait anxiety were associated with more reports of unconstrained thought. Unconstrained thought demonstrated test–retest reliability across two sustained-attention tasks. This study suggests the potential of unconstrained thought as an individual-difference variable, especially in relation to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, but also highlights its functional overlap with task-unrelated thought.