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Refusing to imagine? On the possibility of psychogenic aphantasia. A commentary on Zeman et al. (2015)

DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2015.06.013
de Vito, S., & Bartolomeo, P. (2016). Refusing to imagine? on the possibility of psychogenic aphantasia. a commentary on zeman et al. (2015). Cortex, 74, 334–335. doi:10.1016/j.cortex.2015.06.013

Abstract

This research commentary explores whether aphantasia - the inability to create mental images - might sometimes have psychological rather than purely brain-based causes. The authors question whether some people might be "refusing to imagine" due to emotional or mental health factors. The discussion centers around a famous 1883 case called "Monsieur X," a man who suddenly lost his ability to visualize. While originally thought to be caused by brain damage, some researchers now suggest his condition might have been psychological. Before losing his imagery, Monsieur X experienced severe stress, anxiety, and depression. He described feeling like a completely different person - going from being emotional and imaginative to feeling "calm, cold, and without imagination." Historical medical records reveal similar patterns. Several patients who lost their ability to visualize also suffered from anxiety, depression, and feelings of detachment from reality (called depersonalization). Some felt so disconnected from their mental experiences that they believed they were dead. These psychological symptoms often appeared alongside or before the loss of mental imagery. The authors argue that aphantasia might fall into different categories: some cases caused by brain damage, others by psychological factors, and possibly a third group where both physical and psychological causes combine. They suggest that people reporting aphantasia should receive not only brain scans and neurological tests, but also mental health evaluations. This perspective adds complexity to our understanding of aphantasia, suggesting that the mind's inability to create images might sometimes reflect the mind's unwillingness to do so, particularly during times of emotional distress.

Authors

  • Stefania de Vito1
  • Paolo Bartolomeo4

Exploring Aphantasia: The Role of Psychological Factors

Overview/Introduction

Aphantasia is a condition where individuals cannot create mental images, often described as having a "blind mind's eye." Traditionally, it has been attributed to brain-based causes. However, recent research suggests that psychological factors might also play a role. This commentary delves into whether some cases of aphantasia might be due to emotional or mental health issues rather than just neurological ones.

Methodology

The authors of this research commentary revisit historical medical cases, focusing on a well-documented instance from 1883 involving a man known as "Monsieur X." By examining historical records and psychological symptoms associated with aphantasia, the researchers aim to uncover patterns that might indicate psychological causes.

Key Findings

  • Historical Case Study: Monsieur X, who suddenly lost his ability to visualize, experienced severe stress, anxiety, and depression before his condition manifested. Initially thought to be brain damage, his case is now reconsidered as potentially psychological.
  • Patterns in Medical Records: Other historical cases show similar patterns where individuals lost their ability to visualize after experiencing anxiety, depression, and feelings of detachment from reality.
  • Categories of Aphantasia: The authors propose that aphantasia might be categorized into:
  • Cases caused by brain damage
  • Cases caused by psychological factors
  • Cases with a combination of both physical and psychological causes

Implications

This research suggests that the inability to create mental images might sometimes be a reflection of the mind's unwillingness to do so, particularly during emotional distress. This perspective encourages a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing aphantasia, advocating for:
  • Holistic Assessments: Individuals reporting aphantasia should undergo not only neurological tests but also mental health evaluations.
  • Broader Understanding: Recognizing the potential psychological roots of aphantasia could lead to better support and treatment options for those affected.

Limitations

While the commentary provides valuable insights, it primarily relies on historical case studies, which may not fully represent the current understanding of aphantasia. Further research is needed to explore the psychological aspects of the condition in contemporary settings.
In conclusion, this research commentary challenges the traditional view of aphantasia as purely brain-based, highlighting the potential influence of psychological factors. By considering both neurological and psychological assessments, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of this intriguing condition.