Examining the effects of goal-setting, feedback, and incentives on sustained attention.

Across four experiments we examined the effects of goal-setting, feedback, and incentivizing manipulations on sustained attention. In addition to measuring task performance, measured subjective attentional states momentary feelings motivation alertness. Experiment 1 compared two specific goal conditions-one difficult one easy-with a standard set instructions. The conditions both reduced RTs attenuated vigilance decrement but did not impact engagement (motivation or task-unrelated thoughts). 2 manipulated goal-setting feedback across conditions. combination had strong performance engagement. Additionally, increased (higher fewer thoughts) regardless whether it was paired with goal. 3 effect pairing goals reward. Participants in reward condition (time-based incentive) reported higher show better performance. Offering cash incentive meet have an any dependent variables. Finally, effort examine more moderately-difficult might lead optimal 4 broader range goals. However, see Although some experimental were effective mitigating decrement, none eliminated it. We discuss theoretical implications results regard theory theories vigilance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).