Scientists from the University of Michigan have unveiled a metric termed the “d factor”, indicating an individual’s predisposition towards distraction, suggesting potential ties to ADHD. This conclusion was reached after a thorough examination of the distractibility tendencies and ADHD symptoms of 1,220 participants.
The “d factor” amalgamates instances of external distraction, intrusive thoughts, and wandering of the mind. Interestingly, it is also associated with the profound condition of hyperfocus.
Within a distraction-focused study engaging over 1,000 participants, a unique metric—the “d factor”—emerged from statistical analysis. This metric might signify an individual’s inherent propensity for distraction, possibly associated with ADHD. Han Zhang, from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and his team disclosed their research in the peer-reviewed PLOS ONE journal.
Table of Contents
Historical Perspective on Distraction Studies
Previous academic work has delved into varied forms of distraction, ranging from external triggers, persistent negative cogitation, to mere daydreaming. Some studies have posited that susceptibilities to different distraction forms might be encapsulated by a singular “distractibility factor”. However, conclusive evidence supporting this hypothesis remains scanty, and most research hasn’t holistically assessed the gamut of distractions, especially those tied to ADHD.
Research Process and Outcomes
To attain a richer understanding of distraction varieties and their plausible connection to ADHD, Zhang and his team directed 1,220 participants to partake in detailed questionnaires. These surveys gauged participants’ proclivity to undergo varying distractions in everyday life—like the challenge of concentration when a TV is active or being engulfed in daydreams. Additionally, the questionnaires assessed ADHD symptoms and the phenomenon of hyperfocus—a prolonged period of deep concentration occasionally affiliated with ADHD.
Data analysis identified three principal, discrete factors that could statistically delineate observed trends: external distractions, involuntary intrusive thoughts, and mental drifting. The statistical interplay between these factors can be described by a unified superior factor—the d factor.
Subsequent analysis pinpointed robust statistical correlations between the d factor and symptoms of ADHD in individuals. There was also an association between the d factor and hyperfocus, hinting that hyperfocus could partially signify attentional challenges.
Consequences and Upcoming Research Avenues
Such discoveries might pave the way for enriched comprehension of individual distractibility and its correlation with ADHD. The researchers accentuate the imperative of more in-depth studies to decode the intricacies of the d factor and its connection to ADHD. They also highlight the necessity to adopt diverse data acquisition methods, like behavioral assignments or examinations.
To quote the authors: “A pivotal outcome from our research is the discernment of a superior factor, potentially representing a broad distractibility trait. Individuals with high scores on this ‘general distractibility’ trait demonstrate heightened distraction susceptibility across varied situations.”
Citation: “A d factor? Elucidating trait distractibility and its interplay with ADHD symptoms and hyperfocus” by Han Zhang, Akira Miyake, Jahla Osborne, Priti Shah, and John Jonides, 25 October 2023, PLOS ONE. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292215
This research received support from the National Science Foundation [grant number: 1658268] and the National Institute of Mental Health (FAIN: R21MH129909) both conferred to the University of Michigan with JJ as the chief researcher. Funding agencies did not influence the study’s methodology, data analysis, publication decision, or manuscript drafting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword: D Factor
What is the “D Factor” discovered by researchers?
The “D Factor” is a metric unveiled by scientists from the University of Michigan that indicates an individual’s predisposition towards distraction, suggesting potential ties to ADHD.
Who conducted the research on the “D Factor”?
The research was conducted by scientists from the University of Michigan, with Han Zhang from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, leading the team.
How many participants were involved in the study?
A total of 1,220 participants were involved in the comprehensive study examining distractibility tendencies and ADHD symptoms.
In which journal were the research findings published?
The research findings were disclosed in the peer-reviewed PLOS ONE journal.
What forms of distractions were previously studied?
Previous academic work has explored varied forms of distraction, including external triggers, persistent negative cogitation, and daydreaming.
How was the relationship between the “D Factor” and ADHD determined?
Data analysis from detailed questionnaires taken by participants identified three principal factors: external distractions, involuntary intrusive thoughts, and mental drifting. The interplay between these factors led to the identification of the “D Factor,” which showed robust statistical correlations with symptoms of ADHD in individuals.
Are there future research avenues proposed by the researchers?
Yes, the researchers emphasized the need for more in-depth studies to decode the intricacies of the d factor and its connection to ADHD. They also highlighted the necessity to adopt diverse data acquisition methods, like behavioral assignments or examinations.
More about fokus keyword: D Factor
- University of Michigan Research Publications
- PLOS ONE Journal
- ADHD Research and Findings
- National Science Foundation Grants
- National Institute of Mental Health Research
5 comments
good to see Univ. of Michigan leading in this research. but how will this practically help ADHD patients? Need more info.
I’ve been reading up on ADHD for a while now, since my nephew was diagnosed. This d factor stuff seems pretty groundbreaking. Anyone else think so?
Didnt expect this! Science never fails to amaze. Missing some details but overall great piece. Hope more comes out of this.
kinda surprised it’s taken this long to find something like the d factor. But better late than never I guess.
Read the article and not entirely sure I get it. Can someone break it down for me in layman terms?