The role of mindfulness and self-control in the relationship between mind-wandering and metacognition

Abstract

Mind-wandering is a common phenomenon that can at times have negative effects. Metacognition enhances one's ability to regulate the occurrence of mind-wandering. Although previous reviews supporting a significant association between wandering mind and metacognition have been published, little is known regarding the underlying mechanisms of such an association and the psychological mechanisms that enable one to gain better control of his or her mind. In current study, we explored the relationship between mind-wandering and metacognition, and the potential mediating effects of self-control and mindfulness in this relationship. We used a cross-sectional survey design with multiple questionnaires, including the Mind-Wandering Questionnaire (MWQ), Metacognitions Questionnaire (MQ), Mindfulness Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS), and Tangney's Self-control Scale (SCS). Multiple mediation analysis revealed mind-wandering was a significant predicator of meta-cognition, and that mindfulness, but not self-control could uniquely mediate the association between mind-wandering and metacognition. Moreover, self-control and mindfulness were found to mediate the relationship between mind-wandering and metacognition sequentially. Together, the present findings provide empirical evidence of influencing factors for better control of one's mind, and further indicate that mindfulness and self-control play distinct roles in the regulation of self-generated thoughts.