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On the characteristics of aphantasia, hyperphantasia and sensory imagery in a multi-cultural sample

DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3902941/v1
Bruder, J., & Zehra, M. (n.d.). On the characteristics of aphantasia, hyperphantasia and sensory imagery in a multi-cultural sample. doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-3902941/v1

Abstract

Sensory imagery, such as visual imagery, is assumed to be a universal cognitive ability, yet a current research gap is a lack of cultural diversity in the existing literature. Further, research has primarily focused on visual imagery, as opposed to other sensory imagery. Visual imagery presents with a large degree of individual variability and includes two extreme forms, aphantasia and hyperphantasia. This study investigated sensory imagery in a multi-cultural sample. Participants (N = 636) completed the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire (VVIQ) scale and the Plymouth Sensory Imagery Questionnaire (Psi-Q). Altogether 5.0% of participants fell within the aphantasia range (VVIQ: 16–32) and 12.1% within the hyperphantasia range (VVIQ: 75–80). Across the sample, no VVIQ differences were found for gender, age, occupation, or education. VVIQ scores positively correlated with all imagery scales in the Psi-Q, suggesting imagery across senses is not independent. To explore cultural differences, participants were divided into five cultural groups: 1) Western Educated Industrialized Rich & Democratic (WEIRD) (n = 89); 2) South-East Asia (SEA, n = 121); 3) South Asia (n = 180); 4) Middle East and North Africa (MENA, n = 86), and 5) Arabian Gulf (Arab, n = 43). WEIRD and SEA participants reported significantly higher levels of visual imagery in the VVIQ than those from MENA. Within the Psi-Q sensory subscales, SEA and WEIRD participants reported significantly higher imagery than MENA and Arabian Gulf participants. In conclusion, this study contributes to previous prevalence reports for aphantasia and hyperphantasia in a novel sample and demonstrates the need to consider culture when investigating imagery across all senses.

Authors

  • Jennifer Bruder1
  • Masooma Zehra1

Exploring Sensory Imagery Across Cultures

Overview/Introduction

Imagining a vivid sunset or the taste of your favorite dish is something many of us can do with ease. This ability, known as sensory imagery, varies greatly among individuals. While most research has focused on visual imagery, this study broadens the scope to include multiple senses and examines these abilities across different cultures. The study also sheds light on two unique conditions: aphantasia, where individuals cannot visualize images, and hyperphantasia, where individuals experience extremely vivid imagery.

Methodology

The study involved 636 participants from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Western Educated Industrialized Rich & Democratic (WEIRD), South-East Asia (SEA), South Asia, Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and the Arabian Gulf. Participants completed two questionnaires: the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire (VVIQ) and the Plymouth Sensory Imagery Questionnaire (Psi-Q). These tools measured the vividness of imagery across different senses.

Key Findings

  • Prevalence of Aphantasia and Hyperphantasia: 5% of participants experienced aphantasia, while 12.1% experienced hyperphantasia.
  • Cultural Differences: Participants from WEIRD and SEA regions reported higher levels of visual imagery compared to those from MENA and the Arabian Gulf.
  • Gender, Age, and Education: No significant differences in imagery vividness were found based on gender, education, or occupation. However, older participants reported more vivid imagery for smell and taste.
  • Interconnected Senses: VVIQ scores were positively correlated with all imagery scales in the Psi-Q, indicating that visual imagery is related to imagery in other senses.

Implications

This study highlights the importance of considering cultural contexts when studying sensory imagery. The findings suggest that cultural and environmental factors may influence the development of imagery abilities. This could have implications for educational practices, particularly in how imagination and creativity are fostered in different cultures.

Limitations

  • Language Barrier: The study was conducted in English, potentially excluding non-English speakers.
  • Gender Imbalance: More females participated, which might have skewed the results.
  • Cultural Representation: While diverse, the sample may not fully represent the global population.
Overall, this research underscores the complexity of sensory imagery and the need for further studies to explore these abilities across a broader range of cultures and languages.