Cognition, emotion, and the default mode network.

The Default Mode Network (DMN) is a brain system where cognitive and emotional processes converge, especially in integrating memory and emotion. This mini-review identifies three patterns of DMN activity during emotional processing: the ventromedial prefrontal cortex encodes memory pleasantness while other DMN regions build episodic content; DMN interacts with amygdala and anterior insula to assign emotional significance; and widespread DMN activation occurs for both pleasant and unpleasant events, challenging the idea that cognition and emotion are modular. The first two patterns may stem from methodological choices, while a non-modular view has recently emerged as most plausible. The DMN appears fundamental for constructing coherent, emotionally charged narratives.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The Default Mode Network (DMN) is increasingly recognized as a key hub where cognitive and emotional processes converge, particularly through its role in integrating episodic memory and emotional experiences. The current mini-review highlights three distinct patterns of brain activity within the DMN associated with emotional processing. The first pattern indicates that, while the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) encodes the pleasantness of memories, other DMN regions support episodic content construction. The second pattern suggests the interaction between the DMN and regions outside of it, such as the amygdala and anterior insula, which contribute to the emotional significance of memories. The third pattern shows widespread activation across the DMN for both pleasant and unpleasant events, challenging the notion of a modular organization of cognition and emotion. The first two patterns appear to result from methodological choices in some studies, while a non-modular view of cognition and emotion in the DMN has recently emerged as the most plausible. These findings support the integration of cognitive and emotional processes within the DMN, suggesting that it plays a fundamental role in constructing coherent and emotionally charged narratives.