Resisting distraction during goal setting: insight from neurophysiological and behavioral data

In professional settings, interruptions can frequently disrupt tasks, necessitating adaptive control processes and focused attention to meet deadlines effectively. This research explored the behavioral and electrophysiological (EEG) markers of professionals’capacity to resist distractions during a goal setting task, and their adaptability and willingness to adjust a previously determined time schedule. 33 professionals undertook the three phases of the Time for Goal task (T4G): Distractor Resistance (DR), Time Confidence Assessment (TCA) and Time-to-Action Adjustment (TAA). Three scores were derived from these phases (DR, TCA, and TAA). During the RD phase EEG activity of delta, theta, alpha, and beta frequency bands, was recorded continuously. Participants also filled in the 10-item Big Five Inventory (BFI). The findings revealed decreased beta band power in the post-distractor phase compared to the pre-distractor phase over both frontal regions. Conversely, increased beta band power was observed in the post-distractor phase compared to the pre-distractor phase in the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ). Correlations between the EEG workload index (calculated from the ratio of post/pre-distractor EEG data) showed a negative correlation between the DR score and EEG beta workload index in the right frontal area and a negative correlation between the TAA score and EEG alpha workload index in the rTPJ. Additionally, a negative correlation was shown between Emotional Stability trait scores and the TAA score. This study identified a specific activation pattern associated with the ability to resist distractions, highlighting a crucial role for both the beta band and rTPJ in attentional processes and cognitive control.