Many modern developmental theories center on the need to master the sensory world, empowering higher cognition and self-regulation. Yet has this emphasis led to a more resilient, happier population? Emerging neuroimaging research suggests that the successful inhibition of affective processing following negative mood challenge is paradoxically linked to greater depression vulnerability. Convergingly, 'third-wave' psychotherapies such as mindfulness training seem to enhance sensory integration rather than empower top-down control. Together, the evidence suggests that wellbeing depends on balance between sensory and control systems. Practically, this may require a greater appreciation of the benefits of 'sense foraging' in the face of affective disturbance as an alternative to the many avenues for inhibition or avoidance of negative emotion available today. New directions in behavioral assessment and intervention will be discussed.
Target Audience: Physicians (psychiatrists, pediatricians, child neurologists), psychologists, social workers, other mental health clinicians and researchers, and students and trainees.
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
- Articulate the distinction between brain networks dedicated to knowledge consolidation and sensory exploration.
- Experience the difference between emotion regulation as control vs. exploration.
- Consider the defining mental health as the ability to achieve balance between knowledge and exploration brain systems.