primates, are able to plan ahead, resist distraction, and maintain a 

 goal orientation. These human characteristics appear to depend upon 

 the efficiency of self-regulation. Many of the brain areas involved 

 are shared with other animals, providing a perspective on how self- 

 regulation has evolved. Animal studies may make it possible to learn 

 in detail how genes influence the common brain network underlying 

 self-regulation. 



A number of neurological and psychiatric pathologies involve dif- 

 ficulties in self-regulation and show deficits in the underlying atten- 

 tional network. Specific training experiences have been shown to 

 influence the development of this network in children. Imaging may 

 help us understand how network improvement relates to treatment 

 of some mental disorders. 



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