C014

Need for Cognition

B01 Attention & Processing
Core LayerMML-1

Version v1.3.2

Definition

A stable tendency to engage in and enjoy effortful cognitive activities, preferring depth of analysis over simplicity.

Poles

Each HES element is a spectrum, not a category: the Low and High poles describe how it presents at its two extremes, while the Reference marks the typical, everyday middle. The poles map variation across the range — neither end is inherently better or worse.

Low Pole

Cognitive aversion: prefers simple answers, avoids complex thinking, dislikes puzzles.

High Pole

Actively seeks challenging tasks; enjoys reasoning; willing to invest time in analysis.

Reference

Moderate interest: can engage deeply when time and energy allow, but does not seek complexity by default.

Measure

Standardized questionnaires (e.g., Need for Cognition Scale); behavioral indicators (time spent on complex tasks, choice of challenging tasks when free to choose).

Measuring Methods

• Standardized self-report scales.
• Observation of task choice and persistence on complex problems.

Empirical Anchor

Need for cognition (Cacioppo & Petty, 1982); epistemic curiosity (Litman, 2008); intellectual engagement factor.

Notes

• Differs from curiosity (C104): here focus on effort and complexity, not novelty.

Citation

APA

Human Elements System. (2026). Need for Cognition (HES Passport C014, v1.3.2). hestable.com. https://hestable.com/passport/C014

BibTeX

@misc{hes_C014, author = {{Human Elements System}}, title = {{Need for Cognition}}, year = {2026}, note = {HES Passport C014, v1.3.2}, howpublished = {\url{https://hestable.com/passport/C014}} }