Sub-clinical checking compulsions are related to impaired prospective memory independently of depression, anxiety and distractibility

Abstract

In this study, we explored whether relationships between checking compulsions and prospective memory are a result of the increased levels of distractibility, depression, state and trait anxiety associated with checking compulsions. Students ( N = 126) completed a prospective memory task and questionnaires which assess the frequency of experiencing prospective memory failures. Checking compulsions were associated with failing the prospective memory task and with self-reported prospective memory failures. Elevations in distractibility, depression, state and trait anxiety associated with checking compulsions had no influence on prospective memory task performance. They contributed to, but did not completely account for, the relationship between checking and self-reported prospective memory. The results support our theory that individuals with checking compulsions have an impaired prospective memory and that their increased experiences with prospective memory failures undermines their trust in the ability to perform tasks, ultimately resulting in intrusive doubts that specific tasks were not performed and the compulsion to check.