The Cognitive Neuroscience of Attention: Current Debates and Research

Attention is the ability to process stimuli selectively and maintain focus, even in distracting environments. The brain mechanisms of attention are complex and still largely unknown. This book discusses recent debates in attention research, including whether attention can modulate early cortical processing and whether changes in white matter are critical for attention training. It also presents cutting-edge research on new theories of attentional control, such as the influence of practice, epigenetics, reward, social interaction, and distractor suppression, using advanced cognitive neuroscience methods.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Attention is a crucial cognitive ability that allows us to selectively process the vast array of stimuli that bombard our senses every moment. It plays a vital role in enabling us to maintain focus and complete tasks efficiently, even in distracting environments. The study of attention has been an active area of research for decades, yet there is still much to be discovered about the brain mechanisms that underpin it.

One unique aspect of this book is its focus on recent debates in attention research. Each chapter includes a comprehensive discussion paper that is followed by peer commentaries and an author's response. These debates cover topics such as whether attention can modulate activity in even the earliest cortical processing regions and whether changes in white matter are essential for the effects of attention training.

In addition to these discussion chapters, the book presents cutting-edge research on some of the newest theories of attentional control and selective attention. These theories explore the influence of practice, epigenetics, reward, social interaction, and distractor suppression on attentional processes. The studies employed advanced cognitive neuroscience methods, including neurostimulation, functional neuroimaging pattern analysis, and the evaluation of oscillatory brain activity, to shed light on the brain mechanisms underlying attention.

The chapters in this book were originally published as articles in various issues of the journal Cognitive Neuroscience. By bringing together these contributions, the book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of attention research. It will be valuable to researchers, students, and practitioners interested in understanding the nature and mechanisms of attention and its applications in various domains, such as education, psychology, and neuroscience.

Weight: 796g
Dimension: 209 x 280 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367501266