Grant: Project Grant

Our recent dynamic framework of thought (Christoff et al., 2016, Nat Neuro Rev) makes predictions about how we can differentiate forms of spontaneous thoughts. These dissociable thoughts (e.g., mind wandering, rumination, creativity) can be separated based on varying levels of deliberate and automatic constraints, which are predicted to align with specific brain networks' interactions, and which bear substantial implications for clinical conditions such as depression that are associated with systematic changes in spontaneous thought. The proposed research program will test the framework's predictions by combining functional connectivity approaches with experience sampling (e.g., periodic questioning about one's current mental state) during fMRI to investigate the neural basis of spontaneous thought and its alterations in healthy controls and participants with subclinical depression. This research will also examine the processes that underlie the conversion of subclinical depression into Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This work has the potential to significantly contribute to improving the health and quality of life of Canadians. It could also help identify new opportunities for early intervention and prevention for depression. Overall, this research and its clinical applications have a strong potential to improve the wellbeing of Canadians and benefit our society as a whole.