Cognitive and neural mechanisms of creativity

BMC Psychology announces a Collection on Cognitive and Neural Mechanisms of Creativity. This Collection explores the interplay between cognitive processes, neural mechanisms, and creativity across various domains, including but not limited to psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, and related disciplines. Creativity, often regarded as a hallmark of human cognition, encompasses the ability to generate novel and valuable ideas, solutions, or products. It pervades diverse aspects of human endeavor, from artistic expression and scientific innovation to problem-solving in everyday life. Yet, the cognitive and neural mechanisms that underpin creative thinking remain a subject of intense scholarly inquiry and debate. We invite submissions that shed light on the multifaceted nature of creativity, employing diverse methodologies such as experimental psychology, neuroimaging, computational modeling, and clinical studies. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: Neural correlates of creative cognition: brain regions, networks, and dynamics associated with different facets of creative thinking, including idea generation underlying divergent convergent, associative, and lateral thinking, as well as insight. Cognitive processes underlying creativity: the cognitive mechanisms involved in creative problem-solving, such as expertise development and cool executive functions, including cognitive flexibility, working memory, attention, and inhibition, as well as hot executive functions, including emotional aspects. Individual differences in creativity: personality traits, cognitive styles, genetic factors, and environmental influences that contribute to variations in creative abilities across individuals and populations. Developmental perspectives on creativity: the emergence and evolution of creative thinking from childhood through adulthood, considering factors such as environmental stimulation, educational interventions, and critical periods of brain development. Neural plasticity and creative interventions: the potential for enhancing creative abilities through cognitive training, neurofeedback, brain stimulation techniques, and other interventions targeting neural plasticity. Cultural and societal influences on creativity: how cultural norms, societal values, historical context, and social dynamics shape creative expression, innovation, and the reception of creative works. By fostering dialogue among researchers from diverse backgrounds, this Collection aims to deepen our understanding of the nature of creativity and its implications for psychology, neuroscience, education, the arts, and beyond.