Towards a Model of Boredom: Investigating the Cognitive and Neural Correlates of Boredom and Inattention

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Boredom is a common phenomenon that impacts a broad and heterogeneous range of human activities. Past research revealed that boredom is associated with attention lapses, an inability to sustain attention, mind wandering, and numerous psychiatric disorders. Thus, the experience has broad implications for Canadians. Consider, for example, the potential consequences of boredom for commercial airline pilots on long-haul flights, academics and behaviour in the classroom, and the role boredom plays in disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Given this, it is surprising how little research has been devoted to defining the distinct neural and psychological underpinnings of the construct itself. Without a thorough understanding of the basic processes that underlie the experience, it is difficult to establish criteria to identify and measure it. Thus, a comprehensive definition of what boredom is and how it is different from related states, such as mind wandering and inattention, is a necessary first step before researchers in other fields can begin to determine what constitutes normal and atypical levels of boredom and design effective treatments and interventions. The present research is designed to draw upon convergent neuroimaging and cognitive methods to carry out a comprehensive investigation of the underlying processes associated with the experience of boredom. My purpose is to provide experimental evidence that will identify neuropsychological correlates unique to the experience of boredom. This work endeavours to provide a neuropsychological model for the state of boredom and will provide much needed direction for future research investigating attention, emotion and arousal, as well as motivation and reward. Thus, this research not only promises to elucidate important processes and structures related to inattention and boredom, but it also promises to provide a basic foundation for researchers in a wide range of fields.