Dynamic network interactions supporting internally-oriented cognition

- The human brain is organized into several large-scale functional networks.
- These networks interact in a dynamic fashion at rest.
- Many internally-guided tasks also encourage dynamic network interactions.
- Mind-wandering, prospection, and creative thinking are prime examples.

Recent advances in systems neuroscience have solidified the view that many cognitive processes are supported by dynamic interactions within and between large-scale brain networks. Here we synthesize this research, highlighting dynamic network interactions supporting a less explored aspect of cognition with important clinical relevance: internally-oriented cognition. We first present a brief overview of established resting-state networks, focusing on those supporting internally-oriented cognition, as well as those involved in dynamic control. We then discuss recent empirical work emphasizing that many cognitive tasks involving internally-oriented processes - such as mind-wandering, prospection, and creative thinking - rely on dynamic interactions within and between large-scale networks. Our aim is to provide a snapshot of emerging trends and future directions in an important aspect of human cognition.