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.