Abstract
Introduction. High levels of anxiety are often associated with abnormal activity in the brain areas involved in emotional processing, cognitive control, and reduced connectivity in the default mode network (DMN). Studies also show that the activation of the DMN increases during self-reflection processes, especially positive self-reference, suggesting the possibility of using self-reflection to reduce anxiety. This study aims to test this hypothesis on the basis of EEG dynamic data before and after tasks that engage in self-reflection. Methods. The study population comprised 127 participants (mean age 25 ± 8 years). The sample was divided into low- and high-anxious groups and into experimental and control subgroups. Experimental subgroups were subjected to an Imaginary and Self-Reflective Resource (ISRR) technique developed by the author to engage participants in self-reflection. The control groups completed tasks in a disciplinary academic field – a standard cognitive load. EEG recordings were made before and after the tasks were completed. Results. The results showed that high levels of anxiety tend to lead to cognitive fatigue when completing typical cognitive tasks. At the same time, the self-reflection process combined with high levels of anxiety does not lead to a serious cognitive fatigue, but rather reflects the attention process. Low anxiety is generally associated with lower cognitive fatigue. In low-anxious subjects, the completion of self-reflection tasks involves a significant brain activation that characterizes attention processes. Discussion. The results obtained are consistent with those of other researchers and generally confirm the hypothesis of the study. Positive self-reflection can reduce high levels of anxiety due to the DMN activation.
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