Document Type
Article - post-print
Publication Date
11-2008
Abstract
The association between sensation seeking and visual selective attention was examined in 31 adults with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Sensation seeking was measured with Zuckerman’s Sensation Seeking Scale Form V (SSS-V). Selective attention was assessed with a perceptual span task, where a target letter-character must be identified in a quickly presented array of nontarget letter-characters. As predicted, sensation seeking was strongly associated (R2 = .229) with perceptual span performance in the array size 12 condition, where selective attention demands were greatest, but not in the easier conditions. The Disinhibition, Boredom Susceptibility, and Experience Seeking subscales of the SSS-V were associated with span performance. It is argued that personality factors such as sensation seeking may play a significant role in selective attention and related cognitive abilities in HIV positive adults. Furthermore, sensation seeking differences might explain certain inconsistencies in the HIV neuropsychology literature.
Publisher Statement
This is an author-manuscript of an article accepted for publication in AIDS and Behavior following peer review. The version of record is available online at: http://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-007-9288-6.
Recommended Citation
Hardy, D. J., Castellon, S. A., Hinkin, C. H., Levine, A. J., & Lam, M. N. (2008). Sensation Seeking and Visual Selective Attention in Adults with HIV/AIDS. AIDS and Behavior, 12(6), 930–934. http://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-007-9288-6
