RUNNING HEAD: Mindsets and Incidental Information Mindsets and Pre-conscious Open-Mindedness to Incidental Information

Mindset theory (Gollwitzer, 1990) proposes that deliberative mindsets are marked by more openminded processing of information, whereas implemental mindsets are characterized by more closed-minded processing. Accordingly, deliberative and implemental mindsets should differ in selective processing of incidental information when performing a central task. In three experiments, participants in deliberative and implemental mindsets performed a computer task while randomly presented incidental, unavoidable words. A subsequent recognition memory test assessed selective processing of these incidental words. Results revealed that deliberative mindsets led to superior recognition memory, suggesting increased open-mindedness to processing incidental information. Implications for mindset and goal theories are discussed. Mindsets and Incidental Information 3 The cognitive processes that support and maintain goal pursuit have become a central issue among researchers studying motivation (Gollwitzer & Bargh, 1996; Kruglanski, Shah, Fishbach, Friedman, Chun, & Sleeth-Keppler, 2002; Oettingen & Gollwitzer, 2001; Sorrentino & Higgins, 1986). Mindset theory was one of the first theories to describe the complex interplay between cognitive and motivational processes, and continues to be one of the most prominent and influential frameworks (Gollwitzer, 1990). This theoretical model posits that there are multiple stages of goal pursuit, called action phases, which individuals must successfully navigate to attain a goal. In particular, the theory assumes that each phase is characterized by a distinct task that must be accomplished. The two most important of these tasks are choosing a goal and implementing a chosen goal. Whereas individuals must deliberate between the many wishes and desires they might have when choosing a goal, they must plan out when and how to act to implement a chosen goal. Central to the theory is the notion that actively choosing a goal and planning the implementation of a goal activates distinct mindsets, or cognitive procedures, that promote successful navigation through the respective action phases. The studies reported in this paper build upon and advance a body of research that has demonstrated the theoretical and empirical distinction between deliberative and implemental mindsets; that is, differences in information processing when one is engaged in choosing a goal as compared to implementing a