科普｜为什么我们的大脑有时会一片空白

Core Insights - The phenomenon of "blank mind" is identified as a unique cognitive state related to physiological arousal levels, rather than a mere distraction [1][2] - The international research team suggests that blank mind should be viewed as a cognitive state regulated by varying levels of physiological arousal [1][2] Summary by Sections Definition and Characteristics - Blank mind occurs when the brain temporarily reduces processing of external and internal information, leading to a lack of thought content [1] - It is distinct from mind-wandering, where thoughts still jump between different topics [2] Frequency and Conditions - Individuals experience blank mind for an average of 5% to 20% of their time, with variations among different people [2] - It is more likely to occur after prolonged attention tasks, sleep deprivation, or intense physical exercise [2] - Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) experience blank mind more frequently than their peers [2] Neurophysiological Findings - Brain imaging and electrophysiological studies show that during blank mind, there is a decrease in signal complexity and reduced activity in areas related to attention, language, and memory [2] - This state resembles observations made in unconscious states, contrasting with the activation of the "default mode network" during mind-wandering [2] Future Research Directions - The research team aims to promote targeted studies on blank mind, including its relationship with meditation and its potential as a clinical biomarker for neurological and psychiatric disorders [2]