Functional transition rate of the default mode network is associated with self-reported resilience

Abstract

Dynamic variations of information in our environment constantly influence our thoughts, requiring the brain to regulate its internal state transitions to maintain stable psychological functioning. Presumably, effective regulation of brain state transitions — defined as changes from one functional state to another over time — reflects psychological resilience whereas failure to adapt can lead to mental health challenges. However, the specific relationship between these dynamic functional changes and psychological resilience remains unclear. We evaluated neurocomputational changes of the default mode network (DMN) using indices of its functional transitions based on conventional regional mean responses as well as multi-voxel state dynamics, and examined their associations with self-reported resilience in a sample of 336 young adults (171 males, 165 females). Smaller multi-voxel DMN functional state transitions were specifically associated with greater perceived self-resilience, particularly in individuals reporting lower external support. Smaller transitions of DMN regional mean responses were positively associated with more generic resilience measures, though this appeared less robust and potentially susceptible to confounds such as head motion and the size of DMN regions. Associations between resilience and functional state transitions was specific to the DMN, with only limited contributions observed from sensory and salience networks. Our findings reflect a basis for making neurocomputational linkages between brain functional dynamics and subjective experiences. Potential applications for interventions are present for enhancing mental adaptability by modulating DMN transitions, offering a promising index for evaluating intervention outcomes and informing resilience-based mental health strategies.