Activating attachment memories affects default mode network in a non-clinical sample with perceived dysfunctional
Mauro Adenzato1, Claudio Imperatori2, Rita B Ardito3
1Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Behavioural Brain Research
|June 29, 2019
Summary
Individuals with perceived dysfunctional parenting show altered brain connectivity. Early attachment memory activation revealed decreased default mode network (DMN) connectivity, impacting mentalization and emotional regulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Developmental Science
Background:
- Dysfunctional parenting is a risk factor for psychopathology, affecting neurobiological and psychological development.
- The default mode network (DMN) is crucial for psychological functions potentially altered by early life adversity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate electroencephalography (EEG) DMN functional connectivity in relation to perceived dysfunctional parenting (PDP).
- To test the hypothesis that high PDP is associated with decreased DMN connectivity after attachment memory activation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized electroencephalography (EEG) to measure functional connectivity within the default mode network (DMN).
- Assessed perceived dysfunctional parenting (PDP) in a non-clinical sample.
- Examined DMN connectivity changes following the activation of attachment memories.
Main Results:
- Participants with high PDP exhibited decreased theta connectivity between the left temporoparietal junction and right anterior cingulate cortex post-attachment memory activation.
- Individuals with high PDP showed reduced delta connectivity in the same brain regions compared to those with low PDP.
- These findings support the hypothesis linking high PDP to altered DMN functional connectivity.
Conclusions:
- Decreased DMN connectivity in high PDP individuals may represent a neurophysiological signature of impaired mentalization.
- Activation of attachment memories in those with a history of dysfunctional parenting can transiently disrupt brain connectivity.
- This disruption may lead to disturbances in emotional regulation and mentalization, highlighting the long-term impact of early experiences.
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