“The Resting Brain”“Experience sampling during fMRI reveals default network and executive

system contributions to mind wandering”

Christoff, et. al.

Daija Boyd

Questions What is the neural basis for mind

wandering and its relation to ongoing behavior?

What is the role of the executive system during mind wandering?

What is the relationship between meta-awareness and neural recruitment associated with mind wandering?

Logic & Background Neurophenomenology – objective with the

subjective Default network (DN) – brain regions that are

recruited more with decreasing external task demandsReflects personal, internally focused thoughts

Executive network (EN) – consistently activated during demanding mental activity

Experience sampling – intermittently probing subjects to provide self-reports about current mental statewith Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART)

Methods Sustained Attention

to Response Task (SART) 1 digit every 2secs;

identify #3 by NOT pressing button (?)

“Pseudorandom” probe questions (?)› Focused on time

interval 10secs before probe (?)

Results

Interpretation MW is associated with the core of the DN Processes in DN and EN overlap in MW MW strongest without meta-awareness Higher levels of executive recruitment has

3 possibilities› Multitasking› Attempt to return attention to task› Conflict detection in MW content

Distinction in MW (process vs. content) Reverse Inference

Is it possible that the brain’s wandering is its attempt to better complete the task since mind wandering is attributed to strengthening circuits that contribute to improved learning?