Most people have at one point found themselves studying for an exam and watching TV at the same time. Even though multitasking makes individuals less productive, they continue to do so. According to a recent study, habit and positive feelings cause us to multitask.
In a study at Ohio State University, 19 college students were given a cellphone-like device to report all of their activities, three times a day, for four weeks. The students then rated what needs were met by the various activities on this device, and what motivated them to do each activity. The results of this study indicated that multitasking satisfied emotional needs for the students. However, learning and thinking skills were reduced. With multitasking, a dull task felt fun, less stressful, and more doable.
Multitasking is a habit that may be inefficient, but it allows individuals to feel better while doing multiple tasks simultaneously. The trade-offs of effectiveness and positive mood encourage individuals to continue to multitask.
References: "Task Master," Web MD the Magazine. July 2012.
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