i. Attentional dynamics: Theory, methods, and experimental therapeutics

In one line of work, we developed a novel approach to measure and quantify attention as a dynamic process, from moment-to-moment in real-time; and sought to empirically link dynamic features of attentional dysregulation to prevalent mental health problems. Building on this work, we applied a novel approach to quantify meta-awareness of moment-to-moment attentional dysregulation and control, using micro-experience sampling and signal detection theory methods. We translated these insights into a novel therapeutic technology, using real-time feedback on attentional processing (i.e. Attention Feedback Awareness and Control Training), designed to modify biased attentional processing by training meta-awareness and attentional control.

In recent years, we re-focused our theoretical, methodological and translational work on internal attention, in order to better understand the role of attentional processes in (mal)adaptive internally-directed cognition as well as mindfulness training. For example, among other approaches, we developed a novel cognitive-experimental methodology, using an “own-voice” technology, to generate thought-like stimuli that simulate the phenomenology of thought (i.e. tricking source-localization), that can be used to measure and study internal attentional processes. We are applying this paradigm to probe the role of internal attention in prevalent mental health conditions; and to test its mechanistic role in mindfulness meditation training. We are also using this technology to study related phenomena such as emotional reactivity to, and phenomenological identification with, thought and their role in mental health and mindfulness.

In translational work, we applied this own-voice simulated thought methodology to develop a novel personalized experimental therapeutic technologies, designed to train adaptive internally-directed cognitive processing of thought. For example, we recently completed a small randomized controlled study testing real-time feedback on internal attentional processing (e.g. Internal Attention Feedback Awareness and Control Training). As another example, we embedded personalized own-voice simulated thoughts into a novel mindfulness meditation training protocol, and recently tested a proof-of-concept of this first-generation personalized mindfulness training technology.