Rest-Related Attentional Focus and Self-Focus

Introduction. Self-focus (SF) is defined both as a stable trait and a transient state. In regard to the latter condition, rest might be a potentially informative context in which to investigate neuropsychological correlates of temporary SF. First, we spend a noticeable part of our life being not engaged in a task, that is rest. Second, during rest a specific neural network, termed Default Mode Network (DMN) and linked to both internally- and externally-oriented attention, is known to be highly active. Third, the DMN is increasingly associated both in clinical and non-clinical samples with different types of SF. Objectives. This study aims at investigating whether intermittent internal and external attentional focus during rest may contribute to temporary SF. We propose that high levels of internal attention and low levels of external attention are associated with heightened SF. Method. Sixty-eight individuals, either dysphoric or euthymic, were recruited. Participants were then required to rest for about 25 minutes, keeping their eyes closed and avoiding structured thinking. During such period 66 thoughts probes were pseudo-randomly administered, asking individuals to rate both internally-oriented and externally-oriented attention on two 7-point Likert scales. Internally-oriented attention referred to all environmental stimuli-independent thought. Externally-oriented attention was defined as the perceptions of environmental sensory stimuli. Before and after the period of rest, mood- and SF-related measures were collected. At the end of the experiment, questionnaires about individual differences were administered. Results. The results will be presented during the symposium.