When a Clue is Unhelpful: Dynamics of Cognitive Control and Automated Processes in Insight Problem Solving

This study investigated the interaction between cognitive control and automated processes in insight problem solving through five experiments manipulating the level of cognitive control and the presence of implicit clues. Experiment 1 explored the impact of unconscious clues and conscious cognitive control on problem-solving performance. Unexpectedly, implicit clues, previously thought to aid insight, hindered those employing conscious effort, revealing a novel "negative clue effect." Experiment 2 replicated this phenomenon with a different task and instructional condition. To probe the connection between clues and cognitive control, Experiment 3 examined if reduced cognitive control enhanced implicit clue utilization (i.e., a reduced control effect), yielding unexpected performance improvement under cognitive load. Experiment 4 aimed to validate the negative clue and reduced control effects in a single experiment; the latter was significant, but the former was not. Experiment 5 demonstrated a reduced control effect in individuals with moderate inhibitory function. These findings highlight the competition between explicit cognitive control and implicit clues. Paradoxically, robust cognitive control can transform a clue into a hindrance. Further research is needed to explore potential confounders.