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Mental imagery of positive and neutral memories: A fMRI study comparing field perspective imagery to observer perspective imagery

DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2016.09.014
Grol, M., Vingerhoets, G., & De Raedt, R. (2017). Mental imagery of positive and neutral memories: a fmri study comparing field perspective imagery to observer perspective imagery. Brain and Cognition, 111, 13–24. doi:10.1016/j.bandc.2016.09.014

Abstract

Imagery perspective can influence what information is recalled, processing style, and emotionality; however, the understanding of possible mechanisms mediating these observed differences is still limited. We aimed to examine differences between memory recall from a field perspective and observer perspective at the neurobiological level, in order to improve our understanding of what is underlying the observed differences at the behavioral level. We conducted a fMRI study in healthy individuals, comparing imagery perspectives during recall of neutral and positive autobiographical memories. Behavioral results revealed field perspective imagery of positive memories, as compared to observer perspective, to be associated with more positive feelings afterwards. At the neurobiological level, contrasting observer perspective to field perspective imagery was associated with greater activity, or less decrease relative to the control visual search task, in the right precuneus and in the right temporoparietal junction (TPJ). Greater activity in the right TPJ during an observer perspective as compared to field perspective could reflect performing a greater shift of perspective and mental state during observer perspective imagery than field perspective imagery. Differential activity in the precuneus may reflect that during observer perspective imagery individuals are more likely to engage in (self-) evaluative processing and visuospatial processing. Our findings contribute to a growing understanding of how imagery perspective can influence the type of information that is recalled and the intensity of the emotional response. Observer perspective imagery may not automatically reduce emotional intensity but this could depend on how the imagined situation is evaluated in relation to the self-concept.

Authors

  • Maud Grol1
  • Guy Vingerhoets1
  • Rudi De Raedt1

Understanding How We Recall Memories: A Study on Imagery Perspectives

Overview/Introduction

When we think back to past events, we often create mental images in our minds. These images can be from a field perspective, where we see the event through our own eyes, or an observer perspective, where we see ourselves as if from the outside. This study explores how these perspectives affect our memory recall and emotional responses. Using advanced brain imaging techniques, researchers aimed to uncover the neurobiological differences between these perspectives.

Methodology

  • Participants: 27 healthy, right-handed women aged 18-31 participated in the study.
  • Procedure: Participants recalled four specific memories—two neutral and two positive—while undergoing functional MRI (fMRI) scans.
  • Imagery Task: Participants were instructed to recall memories from either a field or observer perspective. They rated their emotional state and the perspective they adopted using a 9-point scale.
  • fMRI Analysis: Brain activity was measured to identify differences in blood-oxygenation levels between the two perspectives.

Key Findings

  • Emotional Response: Imagining positive memories from a field perspective led to higher happiness ratings compared to the observer perspective.
  • Brain Activity: The observer perspective was linked to increased activity in the right precuneus and right temporoparietal junction (TPJ). These areas are associated with perspective shifts and self-evaluation.
  • Perspective Adoption: Participants naturally adopted a field perspective more when recalling positive memories, regardless of instructions.

Implications

  • Emotional Regulation: Understanding how imagery perspectives influence emotions can help in developing therapies for emotional regulation. For instance, promoting field perspective imagery might enhance positive emotions.
  • Therapeutic Applications: The study's insights could be used in psychotherapy, particularly in techniques like imagery rescripting, to help individuals manage emotional responses to memories.

Limitations

  • Memory Content Control: The study did not control for the specific content of memories, which could influence brain activity. However, this also means findings are more likely related to the imagery perspective rather than specific memory content.
  • Sample Diversity: The study focused on a specific demographic (young, healthy women), which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
In conclusion, this study sheds light on how the way we visualize past events can affect our emotions and brain activity. By understanding these processes, we can better harness the power of memory recall in therapeutic settings.