Multitasking harms our brains and performance.
Engaging in multitasking poses detrimental effects on both brain function and task performance, as evidenced by numerous studies conducted at esteemed institutions such as Stanford University and York University. Stanford’s research highlights the adverse impacts of multitasking on concentration, goal prioritization, and overall efficiency, suggesting that it hampers both multitasking and single-tasking abilities. Moreover, findings from York University underscore the correlation between multitasking and diminished comprehension skills, with multitaskers scoring significantly lower on comprehension tests compared to their non-multitasking counterparts.
Interestingly, the negative effects of multitasking extend beyond the individual, affecting those in close proximity as well. Simply being near someone engaged in multitasking can lead to a considerable reduction in comprehension, attributed to visual distractions, as revealed by research. Furthermore, neuroscientists at the Institution of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London have identified structural changes in the brains of frequent multitaskers, specifically damage to the anterior cingulate cortex, which is associated with diminished cognitive control. These findings collectively suggest that multitasking not only impairs individual performance but also has broader implications for cognitive function and brain health.
Media multitasking
Advocates of multitasking often contend that our brains can adapt to handling multiple tasks simultaneously. Organizational psychologists have explored whether individuals accustomed to media multitasking could improve their multitasking abilities. Initially, it was hypothesized that frequent media multitaskers, particularly younger individuals accustomed to such activities, would excel in multitasking scenarios. However, research yielded unexpected results. Habitual engagement in media multitasking, involving simultaneous use of various media, did not enhance multitasking proficiency; rather, it led to decreased task completion efficiency during multitasking endeavors (James, 2018). Furthermore, a study by the University of London highlighted the detrimental effects of regular multitasking, suggesting that it could impair IQ more than cannabis use. Consequently, habitual multitasking or exposure to it may result in cognitive impairment, diminishing intelligence, and task effectiveness (Weems, 2018). These findings raise concerns, particularly in workplaces characterized by pervasive multitasking, such as open-plan offices (James, 2018).
Gender differences in the effects of multitasking
Although previous research has highlighted the detrimental effects of multitasking on cognitive abilities, recent findings suggest that its impact may not be as dire as previously assumed. While IQ alterations were noted in multitasking studies, the effects seemed to be less pronounced for female employees compared to their male counterparts. Male employees exhibited a decrease of approximately 10 IQ points solely during distractions, with no lasting effects afterward. However, it’s worth noting that this observation was based on a small sample size, comprising only eight publicists employed by Hewlett-Packard. These results imply that the gender differences in the effects of multitasking warrant further investigation to ascertain the underlying factors influencing cognitive performance in diverse contexts.
The potential benefits of multitasking
According to research by Mary Courage (2015) at Memorial University in Newfoundland, multitasking may not inherently impair children’s attention spans and could even offer certain advantages if handled adeptly. Although dividing attention typically reduces performance on complex tasks, effective practices and strategies can mitigate this impact. Despite the fact that media multitasking often hampers task completion efficiency, there’s potential for our brains to adapt and improve multitasking skills over time. A study conducted at the University of Madrid suggests a significant correlation between multitasking proficiency, intelligence, and working memory capacity, all of which share common neural mechanisms. Notably, the association between multitasking proficiency and intelligence is largely attributed to memory capacity. This underscores the importance of our ability to process and utilize information across different tasks, ultimately influencing our overall performance and intelligence quotient (Weems, 2018).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the amassed evidence indicates that multitasking exerts adverse effects on both brain function and performance. Research from numerous academic institutions underscores the detrimental impacts of multitasking on concentration, goal attainment, and comprehension skills. Particularly, media multitasking has been associated with decreased task completion efficiency and potential declines in IQ levels. However, amidst these discouraging findings, there exists promising evidence suggesting that, when managed effectively, multitasking may offer certain advantages for children.
Moreover, there’s a pressing need for deeper exploration into the intricate relationship between multitasking ability, intelligence, and memory capacity and their collective impact on overall performance and IQ. Additionally, the implications of these findings should be considered within various working environments, such as open-plan offices, where multitasking is prevalent. Such considerations are essential for devising strategies to mitigate the negative consequences of multitasking while harnessing its potential benefits in diverse contexts.
References
Courage, M.L., Bakhtiar, A., Fitzpatrick, C., Kenny, S. and Brandeau, K., 2015. Growing up multitasking: The costs and benefits for cognitive development. Developmental Review, 35(1), pp.5–41. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dr.2014.12.002.
James, G., 2018. Sitting Near a Multitasker Decreases Your Intelligence by 17 Percent. [online] Inc. Available at: <https://www.inc.com/geoffrey-james/multitasking-reduces-your-intelligence-by-17.html> [Accessed: 15 February 2024].
Weems, S., 2018. Is Multitasking Making Us Less Smart? [online] Psychology Today. Available at: <https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/feed-your-head/201803/is-multitasking-making-us-less-smart> [Accessed: 15 February 2024].
