The main aim of the present study was to explore the modifications of EEG power spectra and EEG functional connectivity in DMN in alexithymia. Compared to TAS− individuals, TAS+ subjects showed a decrease of alpha power in the right PCC (BA 23). Furthermore, compared to TAS− individuals, TAS+ subjects showed a decrease of alpha connectivity between: (i) right ACC and right PCC, (ii) right frontal lobe and right PCC, and (iii) right parietal lobe and right temporal lobe. EEG connectivity values were also negatively related to TAS total score after controlling for general psychopathology, which is known to be associated with alexithymia5. Finally, our mediation models results showed that the relationship between alexithymia and EEG functional connectivity value was directed (i.e., more severe alexithymia associated with a greater decrease in EEG functional connectivity) and was not mediated by psychopathology severity.
