> 3. This can also be seen as a kind of reinforcement learning: we train ourselves to notice when we are mind wandering - this process in itself, after some time, conditions the mind to focus on the present moment
I'm not sure how generalizable this is. Young kids that are still developing seem very present in most circumstances. I almost think we settle into mind wandering as we develop more responsibilities and have to plan further ahead and think about contingencies.
Not being present is an ego protection mechanism. Its classic psychology. As children get older, they develop ideas of who they are and naturally develop ways to protect their emotions.
When peoples' mind wanders, they cling to things that made them feel good or "Day dream" of things that would make them feel good. They're not planning ahead or thinking about contingencies.
Dealing with reality is hard, and being present means continually facing this harsh world. You can observe this with not just kids but adults in the modern world as people are more and more detached from reality and can live in some fantasy context by reinforcing with social media and internet echo chambers
Frankly, calling it classic psychology isn't saying much given the replication crisis. I think what you describe definitely happens sometimes, but to paint all mind wandering in this way seems like a stretch.
Any high level readings you can recommend on this? I'm not looking for a textbook, but something to give me a general overview of this and related concepts.
I'm not sure how generalizable this is. Young kids that are still developing seem very present in most circumstances. I almost think we settle into mind wandering as we develop more responsibilities and have to plan further ahead and think about contingencies.