Bored out of my mind: Integrated and flexible brain networks define trait boredom

Our interests, attentional focus and their integration, are formed by complex interactions across large-scale neural networks. To date, however, few studies have investigated the temporal dynamics of brain activity related to trait boredom proneness, which itself is related to attentional dysfunction and higher rates of depression and anxiety. In a large consortium dataset, we investigated the resting-state network characteristics of boredom proneness. We found that those reporting to be frequently bored had overall increased cortical connectivity compared with those who said they were never bored. In addition, we found that the frequently bored had increased integrated network topology and greater network flexibility compared with those who were never bored. Further analyses indicated that the pattern of functional connectivity was distinct from that observed for the related behavioural challenges of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Through this approach, we provide a potential neural underpinning for trait boredom proneness that links network topological changes related to ascending arousal neuromodulatory systems to heightened integration and flexibility in those highly prone to boredom.