Individual Differences in Vigilance Performance

Abstract

For many practical purposes it is of major importance to consider individual differences in vigilance performance. Much of the relevant research has investigated individual differences in intelligence and in temperament or personality. Of the various dimensions which have received systematic attention, the most consistent effects have been obtained with the personality dimension of introversion-extraversion. Introverts typically outperform extraverts in vigilance performance; they also show less of a vigilance decrement over time. The differences between introverts and extraverts have conventionally been ascribed to the allegedly higher level of arousal in introverts than in extraverts. Limitations in this view are discussed, and an alternative view is presented. According to this view, extraverts are more affected than introverts by immediate environmental stimuli and by their current internal state. In contrast, introverts are more inclined than extraverts to formulate plans and goals, and to make use of compensatory, effortful activities to ensure that their performance goals are attained.