Major
Psychology
Department
Psychology
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Catherine A. Clement
Mentor Department
Psychology
Recommended Citation
Back, Joshua, "Effect of Incubation and Mind Wandering on Creative Problem Solving" (2014). University Presentation Showcase Event. 14.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2014/2014/14
Abstract
An incubation effect refers to improvements in problem solving after an individual takes a break from working on a problem. Previous research suggests several explanations for incubation effects. For example, some research has shown that subjects benefit most from a break when they are given an undemanding task rather than a demanding task during the break (incubation period) (Baird, Smallwood, Mrazek, Franklin, & Schooler, 2012). The undemanding task allows mind wandering, which is believed to create the opportunity for new insights into previously attempted problems. Other research has shown that a break allows subjects to overcome fixation on overly narrow approaches to a problem (Smith & Blankenship, 1989). In the present study, we further explore these explanations. EKU Psychology students are asked to solve Unusual Uses Task problems (e.g. find “unusual uses for a brick”) (Guilford, 1967). We look at success on second attempts to solve these problems among subjects who either do not receive a break, receive a break that includes a demanding task, or receive a break that includes an undemanding task. We predict that a break with an undemanding task will lead to the greatest success later on previously attempted problems.
Presentation format
Poster
Expected Graduation Date
2014
Course Number
PSY 403
Course Title
Practicum in Psychology
Effect of Incubation and Mind Wandering on Creative Problem Solving
An incubation effect refers to improvements in problem solving after an individual takes a break from working on a problem. Previous research suggests several explanations for incubation effects. For example, some research has shown that subjects benefit most from a break when they are given an undemanding task rather than a demanding task during the break (incubation period) (Baird, Smallwood, Mrazek, Franklin, & Schooler, 2012). The undemanding task allows mind wandering, which is believed to create the opportunity for new insights into previously attempted problems. Other research has shown that a break allows subjects to overcome fixation on overly narrow approaches to a problem (Smith & Blankenship, 1989). In the present study, we further explore these explanations. EKU Psychology students are asked to solve Unusual Uses Task problems (e.g. find “unusual uses for a brick”) (Guilford, 1967). We look at success on second attempts to solve these problems among subjects who either do not receive a break, receive a break that includes a demanding task, or receive a break that includes an undemanding task. We predict that a break with an undemanding task will lead to the greatest success later on previously attempted problems.
