mental representation
what is a representation?
an internal model linked to an external stimuli or information
imagery vs. reality
internally generated representations vs. externally driven sensory input
what is the VVIQ?
vividness of visual imagery questionnaire.
imagery priming effect
The imagery priming effect occurs when mentally imagining an image or object makes you more likely (or faster) to perceive, recognize, or process that same image later
inner monologue vs. speech
- speech: speaking/talking to yourself
Propositional vs. abstract representations
- abstract, language-like mental codes that represent information through relationships and symbols, not through images
- image-like, continuous mental models that preserve the structure or physical relationships of what they represent.
imagery and perception
Mentally rotating objects is related to time needed to physically rotate objects
what are some positive correlations of the VVIQ?
- frequency and intensity of PTSD flashbacks
- levels of anxiety when imagining phobias
- scores on social desirability
how do people with aphantasia think if they cannot create vivid mental images?
for conscious thought, words and monologues
VISQ-R
variates of inner speech questionnaire, revised. measures how people experience inner speech. focuses on verbal imagery
mental rotation
first scientific investigation into imagery
visualization
using imagination to stimulate a task
Binocular rivalry task
Different images shown to different eyes can’t fuse
is aphantasia congenital or acquired?
Can be either!
NPC
non-playable character. Basically, someone without inner monologues/speech are philosophical zombies. Comes from 4Chan
what part of the brain is active during mental rotation?
visual cortex
myth of imageless thought
myth: thought is separate from vision
truth: thought relies on the visual system and mental imagery
imaging evidence
positive correlation found between strength of fMRI signal in visual cortex and self-reported vividness of mental image
effect of ayahuasca on congenital vs. acquired aphantasia
- congenital: no benefits to imagery (even during intoxication)
- acquired: sustained benefits to to imagery after ingesting it
what is frequent inner speech/monologue associated with?
greater likelihood of auditory hallucinations, rumination/shame/perfectionism, anxiety/depression, high "default mode network" activity
Aphantasia
lack, or extreme impoverishment, of willed visual imagery
pupilary response
Pupil constricts to light, dilates to darkness
Pupillary light response occurs when presented with visual stimuli
hyperaphantasia
extremely vivid and intense mental imagery
default mode network
part of your brain that is active when your brain is at "rest" (mind wandering, for example)