Psychometric Properties of the Spontaneous and Deliberate Mind Wandering Scales

Abstract

Thinking about task-unrelated matters (mind wandering) relates to cognition and well-being. However, relations between mind wandering and other psychological variables may depend on whether it occurs spontaneously or deliberately. This study examines the psychometric properties of the Spontaneous and Deliberate Mind Wandering Scales (SDMWS), investigating stability, factor structure, and associations with traits such as openness and anxiety. Findings suggest favorable psychometric properties for the scales with implications for their use in assessing mind wandering tendencies and psychological correlates.