Need for cognition relates to low-level visual performance in a metacontrast masking paradigm

• NFC has been found to predict higher-order cognition such as attitude formation.
• We used a metacontrast masking paradigm measuring low-level visual performance.
• High NFC was more likely related to the use of target-specific perceptual cues.
• In contrast, for low NFC the use of less reliable heuristic cues was more likely.
• Thus, core mechanisms of NFC are already mirrored in early visual processing.

Need for cognition (NFC) refers to dispositional differences in cognitive motivation and has been frequently found to predict higher-order cognition, such as attitude formation and decision making. Based on recent evidence, this study examined whether NFC already relates to relatively early perceptual processes. Using a metacontrast masking paradigm (N = 137), we found that high-NFC individuals were more likely to use target-specific perceptual cues providing valid information for target discrimination, while low-NFC individuals were more likely to use less reliable heuristic cues for their judgement. Intriguingly, our results suggest that core mechanisms of NFC (focussed/elaborative vs. peripheral/heuristic processing by differential utilization of environmental cues) can not only be found in reflective higher-order cognition, but similarly in behavioral indicators of early visual processing.