The [[Ventral Attention Network (VAN)]] is a large-scale [[Brain Networks|brain network]] that supports stimulus-driven, bottom-up reorienting of attention, especially toward salient or unexpected events. It works in coordination with the [[Dorsal Attention Network]] to balance top-down control with reactivity. - Core Functions - Detects novel or behaviorally relevant stimuli - Shifts focus from ongoing tasks to unexpected events - Supports reorienting of attention in dynamic environments - Key Regions - [[Temporoparietal Junction (TPJ)]] - Ventral frontal cortex - Right hemisphere dominance in most individuals - Perspectives - [[Cognitive Neuroscience]] - network-level mechanisms for stimulus-driven attention - [[Neuropsychology]] - damage linked to spatial neglect and impaired reorienting - [[Clinical Neuroscience]] - dysregulation associated with attentional deficits, including [[ADHD]] - Relationships - [[Dorsal Attention Network]] - complements top-down, goal-directed attention - [[Salience Network]] - overlaps in detecting and prioritizing salient stimuli - [[Executive Control Network]] - higher-order regulation of attentional switching