Developing the Japanese and English versions of the Mind Blanking Questionnaire (MBQ): validation and reliability

Abstract

We occasionally experience moments when our minds go blank, or our attention disappears. This psychological phenomenon, known as mind blanking (MB), has recently garnered increased attention. MB has been assessed at the state level using experience sampling methods in which participants undertake a cognitive task and probes suddenly appear asking them to report the current contents of their thoughts. However, it may be possible to evaluate MB at the “trait level” as is the case with other mental states (e.g., mind wandering, anxiety, and the like). In the present study, we developed a new scale, the Mind Blanking Questionnaire (MBQ), for assessing the tendency of MB at the trait level in both Japanese and English. The MBQ exhibited good psychometric properties including internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and criterion and construct validities. Additionally, it displayed measurement invariance between the language versions, genders, and age groups. The MBQ would be a valuable tool to assess the individual tendency of MB and contribute to cross-cultural studies.