A researcher uses brain imaging to compare a person's neural activity during a normal waking state to their activity while in a state of heightened, focused attention and reduced peripheral awareness. The results show decreased activity in brain areas associated with self-evaluation and mind-wandering, alongside increased connectivity between the executive control network and areas related to sensory processing. What is the most reasonable interpretation of these findings?

A researcher is analyzing brain imaging data from a participant who underwent three conditions: 1) normal waking consciousness, 2) simple deep relaxation, and 3) a hypnotic state. Which of the following findings would most strongly differentiate the hypnotic state from the other two conditions?