Field Dependence-Independence Modulates Attention Capture by Digital Smartphone Stimuli

While individuals exhibit heightened attentional bias toward social media information, it remains debated whether this reflects a content-specific priority or a broader cognitive adaptation. Using visual search tasks, self-report scales, and the Embedded Figures Test, this study investigated attentional capture by digital icons and the role of cognitive style. Results showed that icons, particularly for field-independent individuals, elicited greater capture, suggesting a generalized digital attentional bias, and cognitive style play a key role in the process.