Functional connectivity within and between intrinsic brain networks correlates with trait mind wandering

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Individual differences in cognitive processes are linked to intrinsic brain networks, notably the default mode network (DMN).
• The DMN's role in mind wandering is established, but its connection to daily mind-wandering tendencies outside lab settings is less understood.
• Network correlations and anticorrelations are associated with performance across various situations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between resting-state functional connectivity of large-scale brain networks and the tendency to mind wander in daily life.
• To examine correlations between the default mode network (DMN), dorsal attention network (DAN), and frontoparietal control network (FPCN) with trait mind wandering.
• To explore associations between mind wandering, executive function, fluid intelligence, and creativity.

Main Methods:

• Participants completed the Mind Wandering Questionnaire and a 5-minute resting-state fMRI scan.
• Executive function, fluid intelligence (Ravens), and creativity (Remote Associates Task) were assessed.
• Functional connectivity analyses were performed with and without global signal regression (GSReg) to assess robustness.

Main Results:

• Significant positive correlations were found between trait mind wandering and increased DMN connectivity at rest.
• Increased connectivity between the DMN and the frontoparietal control network (FPCN) at rest also positively correlated with trait mind wandering.
• Trait mind wandering showed significant positive correlations with fluid intelligence and creativity.

Conclusions:

• Resting-state DMN connectivity is associated with an individual's tendency to mind wander in daily life.
• The findings suggest that certain instances of mind wandering might not be detrimental and could be linked to cognitive abilities like fluid intelligence and creativity.
• The study highlights the complex interplay between intrinsic brain networks, mind wandering, and cognitive performance.