The Neural Correlates of Frustration: A Meta-Analysis on Frustrative Nonreward and Stress

While the study of frustration spans decades, a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationship between its diverse components remains elusive. This meta-analysis endeavors to unravel distinct brain regions associated with frustrative nonreward and psychological stress, as well as their potential convergence. Our findings illustrated that frustrative nonreward and acute stress each triggered activation within the cingulo-opercular network and insular-striatal circuit, respectively. Notably, the anterior insula and ventrolateral prefrontal regions emerge as shared neural substrates for these pivotal facets of frustration.