Cognitive Tempo (a term of Cognitive psychology, also known as reflectivity/impulsivity) is a type of cognitive style defined as the extent to which an individual differs in terms of their ability to respond carefully and slowly, as opposed to quickly and with errors. Cognitive Tempo can be assessed using the Matching Familiar Figures Test (MFFT) developed by Jerome Kagan in 1964.
Matching Familiar Figures Test
The MFFT asks individuals to find the item that exactly matches the item shown at the top of the page, where all items on the page are similar to the top item. In order to find the item that exactly matches the item at the top, an individual must use careful attention. Individuals can respond very slowly to the task, taking their time, or individuals can respond very quickly to the task. Some individuals make very few errors, even when the match is difficult. Others may make numerous errors, even when the match is very easy. Those who respond rapidly and make many errors demonstrate an impulsive style, while those who respond slowly and make few errors demonstrate a reflective style..