A network analytic framework for subjective indicators of attentional control: Exploring unique associations and directed pathways

Abstract

Subjective indicators of attentional control, the Attentional Control Scale (ACS; comprising attentional focusing and shifting) and the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ/CFQ 2.0), are related but considered to capture distinct manifestations. However, how these indicators relate to one another and to related constructs when considered simultaneously remains unclear. Using a network analytic framework, we examined these subjective indicators within a broader context of related constructs, including psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress) and empathy (cognitive and affective) in 592 participants. We estimated a Gaussian Graphical Model (GGM) and a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) to examine unique associations and potential pathways. In the GGM, cognitive failures related to both attentional focusing and shifting, but each showed distinct associations. Cognitive failures were associated with anxiety. Attentional focusing was associated with stress and affective empathy, whereas attentional shifting was associated with depression, cognitive empathy, and affective empathy. The DAG suggested three potential pathways. One linked anxiety to attentional focusing and shifting through cognitive failures; the other two linked empathy to the ACS dimensions, with cognitive empathy linked to attentional shifting and affective empathy to attentional focusing through stress. Considered together, these indicators were related but showed distinct patterns of association with psychological distress and empathy.