How Do Implicit Theories of Mind Wandering Relate to Mind Wandering as Experienced in Everyday Life?

Abstract Studies have revealed that differences in individuals' beliefs about the extent to which mind wandering is controllable (implicit theories of mind wandering) affect the frequency and intensity of emotional responses to mind wandering. However, these associations were observed only when frequency and emotional intensity were assessed using a self‐rating scale that asked participants to recall experiences in their daily lives. This study used a smartphone‐based experience sampling method to measure the frequency of mind wandering and emotional intensity in everyday life. It examined the relationships between implicit theories of mind wandering, frequency of mind wandering, and emotional intensity. In the pre‐survey, participants completed the Japanese version of the Theories of Mind Wandering (TOMW) Scale, which assesses implicit theories of mind wandering. The main survey was conducted the next day, in which participants received eight signals on their registered LINE accounts. Upon receiving the signal, participants answered questions about the frequency of mind wandering and emotional intensity. The results of the multilevel correlation analysis revealed no significant correlation between the TOMW score and the two measures of the frequency of mind wandering. However, the TOMW score positively correlated with the measures of emotional intensity experienced immediately after mind wandering episodes. These results suggest that implicit theories of mind wandering intensify resistance to mind wandering; implications for future research have been discussed.