Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (PhD)

Department

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor/Committee Member

Thane Erickson, Ph.D., ABPP

Second Advisor/Committee Member

Joel Jin, Ph.D.

Third Advisor/Committee Member

Martha Glisky, Ph.D., ABPP-cn

Fourth Advisor/Committee Member

Aimee Asgarian, PsyD

Abstract

Using technology to complete instrumental activities of daily living (T-IADLs) reflects adaptive technology use, while absentminded smartphone use (AMSU) reflects maladaptive technology use. Examining the link between cognitive functioning and distinct forms of technology use can inform clinical strategies for optimizing technology use for individuals with cognitive difficulties and assist in digital design recommendations that align with diverse cognitive needs. This study examined associations between cognitive functioning (objective and subjective) and distinct forms of technology behaviors (T-IADLs and AMSU) within a sample of 93 adults (Mage = 52.6, SD = 16.93; 62% female) recruited from neuropsychology private practice clinics in the Pacific Northwest. The moderating effects of age and affective distress on the relationship between cognitive functioning and technology behaviors were also explored.Consistent with hypotheses, subjective cognitive concern (SCC) predicted higher difficulty completing T-IADLs (b = -0.32, SE = 0.11, p < .01), and AMSU (b = 0.33, SE = 0.11, p < .01). Objective cognitive performance did not predict ICT behaviors. However, higher memory functioning predicted higher AMSU among older adults. All other moderation effects were non-significant. Age was a significant predictor of AMSU b = -0.40, SE = 0.10, p < .01), but not T-IADLs. In contrast, affective distress predicted lower T-IADLs (b = -0.45, SE = 0.12, p < .01), but not AMSU. Results contribute to the growing literature on cognitive functioning and ubiquitous technology engagement while also highlighting the complexity of the phenomena and warranting further research

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