Ideomotor Action and Absorption: Relating the Tellegen Absorption Scale to Ideomotor Tasks

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between two ideomotor tasks: a pendulum task and a rubbing task, and the Tellegen Absorption Scale (TAS). Seventy-four undergraduate students at Middle Tennessee State University participated in exchange for course credit. Each participant completed all three tasks, and completed a funnel questionnaire. The cover story for the pendulum task was found to be effective, while the cover story for the rubbing task was not effective. No relationships between the pendulum task, the rubbing task, and the TAS were found. Analysis of the data based on whether participants were suspicious of each cover story is included, as well as an analysis of any order effects. Implications for future research in this area are considered in light of the existing research on the ideomotor effect.