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Slower but more accurate mental rotation performance in aphantasia linked to differences in cognitive strategies

DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2024.103694
Kay, L., Keogh, R., & Pearson, J. (2024). Slower but more accurate mental rotation performance in aphantasia linked to differences in cognitive strategies. Consciousness and Cognition, 121, 103694. doi:10.1016/j.concog.2024.103694

Abstract

Mental rotation tasks are frequently used as standard measures of mental imagery. However, aphantasia research has brought such use into question. Here, we assessed a large group of individuals who lack visual imagery (aphantasia) on two mental rotation tasks: a three-dimensional block-shape, and a human manikin rotation task. In both tasks, those with aphantasia had slower, but more accurate responses than controls. Both groups demonstrated classic linear increases in response time and error-rate as functions of angular disparity. In the three-dimensional block-shape rotation task, a within-group speed-accuracy trade-off was found in controls, whereas faster individuals in the aphantasia group were also more accurate. Control participants generally favoured using object-based mental rotation strategies, whereas those with aphantasia favoured analytic strategies. These results suggest that visual imagery is not crucial for successful performance in classical mental rotation tasks, as alternative strategies can be effectively utilised in the absence of holistic mental representations.

Authors

  • Lachlan Kay2
  • Rebecca Keogh14
  • Joel Pearson28

Understanding Mental Rotation and Aphantasia

Overview/Introduction

Mental rotation tasks are commonly used to measure mental imagery, but recent research has questioned their effectiveness, especially for individuals with aphantasia—a condition where people cannot visualize images in their mind. This study explores how people with aphantasia perform on mental rotation tasks compared to those with typical visual imagery. The research examines two tasks: rotating 3D block shapes and a human manikin. The findings reveal that individuals with aphantasia, while slower, are more accurate than those with visual imagery, suggesting that visual imagery is not essential for success in these tasks.

Methodology

  • Participants: The study involved two groups: individuals with self-reported aphantasia and a control group with typical visual imagery. Participants were matched by age and gender.
  • Tasks: Two tasks were used:
  • Shepard-Metzler Task: Participants determined if two 3D block shapes were the same or different when rotated.
  • Manikin Test: Participants identified which hand of a manikin held a shape matching the background.
  • Procedure: Participants completed practice trials with feedback before the main tasks. Reaction time and accuracy were measured, and participants reported their strategies.

Key Findings

  • Performance: Individuals with aphantasia took longer but were more accurate in both tasks compared to the control group.
  • Response Patterns: Both groups showed increased response times and error rates with greater angular disparity or orientation changes.
  • Strategy Use:
  • Control participants preferred object-based and embodied strategies, imagining the rotation of objects or themselves.
  • Aphantasia participants favored analytic strategies, using logical criteria rather than visualizing rotations.
  • Correlation: In the aphantasia group, faster responses correlated with higher accuracy, while in the control group, a speed-accuracy trade-off was observed.

Implications

  • Alternative Strategies: The findings suggest that visual imagery is not necessary for mental rotation tasks. People with aphantasia can use analytic strategies effectively, which could influence how we understand and teach spatial tasks.
  • Educational and Cognitive Training: This research highlights the potential for developing alternative cognitive strategies for individuals with limited visual imagery, benefiting educational and cognitive training programs.

Limitations

  • Self-Reported Aphantasia: The study relied on self-reported aphantasia, which may not capture the full spectrum of the condition.
  • Task Specificity: The tasks used may not represent all types of mental imagery or cognitive strategies, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
In conclusion, this research challenges the traditional view that visual imagery is crucial for mental rotation tasks, opening new avenues for unde...