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The role of visual imagery in face recognition and the construction of facial composites. Evidence from Aphantasia

DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2023.06.015
Dance, C. J., Hole, G., & Simner, J. (2023). The role of visual imagery in face recognition and the construction of facial composites. evidence from aphantasia. Cortex, 167, 318–334. doi:10.1016/j.cortex.2023.06.015

Abstract

People with aphantasia have a markedly impaired ability to form visual images in the mind's eye. Here, by testing people with and without aphantasia, we examine the relationship between visual imagery and face processing. We show that aphantasics have weaker face recognition than people with visual imagery, using both self-report and behavioural measures. However, aphantasics nonetheless have a fully intact ability to construct facial composites from memory (i.e., composites produced using EFIT6 by aphantasics and imagers were rated as equally accurate in terms of their resemblance to a target face). Additionally, we show that aphantasics were less able than imagers to see the resemblance between composites and a target face, indicative of issues with face matching (perception). Finally, we show that holistic and featural methods of composite construction using EFIT6 produce equally accurate composites, as do remote (online) and in-person construction procedures. Overall, our results suggest that face recognition and face matching (but not face composite construction) are facilitated by the ability to represent visual properties as 'pictures in the mind'. Our findings have implications for the study of aphantasia, and also for forensic settings, where face composite systems are commonly used to aid criminal investigations.

Authors

  • Carla Dance8
  • Graham Hole1
  • Julia Simner8

Understanding Aphantasia and Its Impact on Face Recognition

Overview/Introduction

Aphantasia is a condition where individuals have a significantly reduced ability to create mental images. This study explores how this condition affects face recognition and the ability to construct facial composites, which are crucial in both social interactions and forensic investigations. By comparing individuals with and without aphantasia, the researchers aimed to uncover the role of visual imagery in these processes.

Methodology

  • Participants: The study involved two groups: those with aphantasia and those with typical visual imagery abilities.
  • Tasks: Participants completed several tasks, including the Cambridge Face Memory Test (CFMT) to assess face recognition and a task using EFIT6 software to construct facial composites.
  • Testing Environment: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some participants were tested in person, while others participated online. The mode of testing did not affect the results.

Key Findings

  • Face Recognition: Individuals with aphantasia showed weaker face recognition abilities compared to those with typical visual imagery. This was evident in both self-reports and performance on the CFMT.
  • Face Composite Construction: Despite difficulties in face recognition, aphantasics were able to create facial composites that were as accurate as those made by individuals with visual imagery. This suggests that constructing composites does not rely on mental imagery.
  • Face Matching: Aphantasics struggled more with face matching tasks, indicating potential issues with face perception rather than memory.

Implications

  • Forensic Applications: The findings suggest that while aphantasics can create accurate facial composites, their ability to match faces might be compromised. This has implications for forensic settings where accurate face matching is crucial.
  • Understanding Aphantasia: The study provides insights into how aphantasia affects cognitive processes related to face recognition and perception, contributing to a broader understanding of the condition.

Limitations

  • Sample Size and Diversity: The study's findings are based on a specific sample, and further research with a more diverse group is needed to generalize the results.
  • Face Matching vs. Recognition: While the study highlights differences in face matching, it does not fully explore the underlying mechanisms that differentiate it from face recognition.
In summary, while aphantasia affects face recognition and matching, it does not hinder the ability to construct facial composites. These insights are valuable for both cognitive science and practical applications in fields like forensic investigation.