An individual differences investigation of the relation between life event stress and working memory capacity

The effects of stress in both academic and social settings are well established. However, the effects of stress on cognitive functioning are less so. This study explored the relation between life event stress and cognitive functioning; first by attempting to replicate a negative association between life event stress and working memory capacity and then by testing if the propensity to mind wander, the emotional valence of mind wandering, or the tendency to ruminate are potential mechanisms through which life stress can affect working memory capacity. In addition, I tested if trait level mindfulness is a protective factor against the effects of life stress on working memory capacity. Negative life event stress did not correlate with working memory capacity. Mind wandering, the valance of mind wandering, rumination, and trait level mindfulness did not serve as mediators in the relationship between working memory capacity and negative life event stress. When compared to neutral and positively valanced mind wandering, negatively valanced mind wandering was not more harmful to SART reaction time. However, when compared to neutral, but not positively valanced mind wandering, negatively valanced mind wandering was more harmful to SART accuracy. Finally, no evidence was found for trait level mindfulness serving as a protective factor