[2] The constant connectedness that is associated with continuous partial attention may also affect relationships, lower productivity levels,[5] and lead to overstimulation and a lack of fulfillment.
When cognitive resources are depleted in processing the surplus of information from partaking in multiple tasks, humans tend to pick the safer options that are less optimal.
Studies showed that students reporting higher media multitasking scored significantly lower on a listening comprehension test.
[12] Continuous partial attention leads to a short temper and decreased patience in a team setting due to frustration and cognitive strain.
Disruption of deep cognitive processing due to fragmented attention leads to overlooking finer details, greater error rates, and longer completion times.
[14] Another consequence of continuous partial attention is the fear of missing out (FOMO), which generates a compulsive need to work beyond the expected working hours, leading to reduced personal recovery time and poor sleep.This leads to the formation of a cycle, as poor recovery and sleep deprivation exacerbates difficulties with focus.
[15] Bifurcation of focus in multiple information streams and tasks ultimately leads to employee stress and a poor work-life balance.
[17] Participants with high levels of continuous partial attention struggled to regulate negative emotions, resulting in feelings of frustration and overwhelm.
Future developments will focus on increasing the focus-enhancing toolbox as well as the genetic and physiological implications of continuous partial attention.