The default network, also known as the default mode network (DMN), is a functional brain network that is active when an individual is at rest and not engaged in any specific external task. It refers to a set of interacting brain regions that show synchronized activity and play a crucial role in various cognitive functions.
The default network includes several key brain regions, such as the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, inferior parietal lobule, and medial temporal lobe. These regions are interconnected through a series of neural connections and work together to facilitate a range of mental processes.
The default network is associated with a variety of cognitive functions, including self-referential thinking, daydreaming, mind wandering, autobiographical memory retrieval, future planning, social cognition, and introspection. It tends to be activated during tasks that involve internally-focused thoughts rather than external stimuli.
However, the default network is also involved in certain psychological conditions, like rumination, overthinking, and mind-wandering. It is implicated in various clinical disorders, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Understanding the default network's activity patterns and its role in different cognitive processes can provide valuable insights into brain function, human behavior, and mental health disorders. Researchers use brain imaging techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), to study the default network and its intricate connections with other brain networks.
