Towards a neuroscience of mind wandering and its implications for clinical research

Dr. Klaus Linkenkaer-Hansen

Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam

Resting-state neuroimaging (M/EEG and fMRI) is widely used to investigate the functional state of the human brain and how it is affected by development, disease, or intervention. However, in the absence of data on thoughts and feelings during the scanning session, the functional significance of ongoing brain activity has remained speculative. To address this issue, we recently developed the Amsterdam Resting-State Questionnaire (ARSQ), which allows for a fast and structured assessment of multiple dimensions of mind-wandering experiences.

In this talk, I will explain why and how we developed the ARSQ, and show how we use it to learn about the wandering mind and its relation to spontaneous brain activity. I will also discuss the urgency of studying the content and quality of mind wandering in patients.

For background literature and information about the speaker, see:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Klaus_Linkenkaer-Hansen

http://www.cncr.nl/research_teams/neuronal_oscillations_and_cognition/