Affect Infusion in a Computer Based Multitasking Environment: An Empirical Investigation

We studied the affect infusing capability of multitasking (by task switching) in a computer based environment. Our central thesis is that multitasking places increased cognitive load and cognitive switching costs on individuals leading to affect infusion during cognitive processing. These effects become magnified and negatively valenced when individuals demonstrate lower self efficacy in the use of the software mediating the multitasking activity. The results of our empirical analysis confirm our thesis. Participants showed increased arousal under the multitasking condition compared to the nonmultitasking condition. Lower self efficacy magnified the negative effect of multitasking on unpleasantness. Implications of our study are discussed.