How temperament shapes the network of attention: Insights from the attention network test and pupil dilation

Attention is presented in Posner's model as supported by alerting, orienting, and executive brain networks, each predominantly modulated by norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and dopamine, respectively. The Functional Ensemble of Temperament (FET) model posits that the same neurotransmitters also underlie three core temperamental domains: maintenance of behaviour, behavioural orientation, and speed of integration. Here, we aimed to investigate the overlap between attentional networks and temperament dimensions. Moreover, we checked whether inter-individual differences in temperament are associated with behavioural and neurophysiological modulations of attentional function. Eighty-nine healthy adults (M=35, F=54) completed the Attention Network Test (ANT) while pupillary responses were recorded. Structure of Temperament Questionnaire (STQ-77) was also administered. Temperamental effects on behavioural performance were assessed through linear mixed-effects models and hierarchical linear regressions, while overall and trait-dependent pupillary activity was analysed using cluster-based permutation tests. Individuals with lower ergonicity and cognitive integration abilities exhibited a more pronounced incongruency effect on manual reaction times. Lower scores in temperamental traits belonging to the orientation dimension resulted in reduced accuracy in incongruent trials. Within the cue-target interval, individuals with a high level of neuroticism exhibited sustained pupil dilation. During the same interval, anticipatory dilation was found in individuals with lower probabilistic reasoning, reduced ability to engage in prolonged socio-verbal activities, and high inhibitory control. These findings support a temperament-based modulation of both behavioural and physiological correlates of attention, accounting for inter-individual differences. By integrating cognitive and autonomic measures, our study provides novel insight into how stable individual traits shape dynamic attentional control.