Dijkstra, Demi (2025) The Relationship Between Hyperfocus, Inhibition, and Punishment Sensitivity. Bachelor thesis, Psychology.
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Abstract
Introduction: Hyperfocus is considered an intense state of concentration in which individuals become fully absorbed by an activity. It has mostly been linked to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), but non-clinical samples have experienced the phenomenon as well. Executive dysfunctions have been found to partially predict hyperfocus. Motivational aspects, like punishment sensitivity, are thought to also play a role in its occurrence. This study examines the relationship between hyperfocus, inhibition, and punishment sensitivity. Methods: A sample of 352 first-year psychology students at the University of Groningen completed an online survey measuring dispositional hyperfocus, inhibition (self-restraint), and punishment sensitivity using the DHS-AHQ, BDEFS-SF, and RPRM-Q respectively. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to assess the predictive relationships between these variables. Results: The findings indicate that inhibition difficulties significantly predict dispositional hyperfocus, supporting the hypothesis that executive dysfunction is a contributing factor. Punishment sensitivity, however, did not show a significant association with hyperfocus in the first model. A second analysis revealed that punishment sensitivity was a significant predictor of hyperfocus in female participants but not in male participants. Discussion: The results suggest that inhibition difficulties may be a core mechanism of hyperfocus, while the role of punishment sensitivity appears to be influenced by gender. This study contributes to the growing body of research on hyperfocus by providing empirical support for its association with executive dysfunction. Future studies should emphasize gender differences in hyperfocus, as well as explore the unique contributions of the other executive functions.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor) |
|---|---|
| Supervisor name: | Garcia Pimenta, M. |
| Degree programme: | Psychology |
| Differentiation route: | None [Bachelor Psychology] |
| Date Deposited: | 22 Apr 2025 09:21 |
| Last Modified: | 22 Apr 2025 09:21 |
| URI: | http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4846 |
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