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Fewer intrusive memories in aphantasia: using the trauma film paradigm as a laboratory model of PTSD

DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/7zqfe
Keogh, R., Wicken, M., & Pearson, J. (n.d.). Fewer intrusive memories in aphantasia: using the trauma film paradigm as a laboratory model of ptsd. doi:10.31234/osf.io/7zqfe

Abstract

When we live through a traumatic event some of us will go on to experience uncontrollable unpleasant memories of the event. These intrusive memories are one of the hallmarks of post-traumatic stress disorder. Intrusive memories or flashbacks are typically described as visual, and their vividness predicts the severity of PTSD. If visual imagery is central to the development and continuation of flashbacks then people without visual imagery (aphantasia) should experience less, or different, intrusive memories. To test this, a group of individuals with aphantasia and a group with visual imagery underwent a lab-based PTSD model: the trauma film paradigm. Aphantasic individuals reported fewer intrusions immediately after watching the traumatic film, as well as fewer intrusions in a digital diary app over the course of a week. Despite the significant reduction in intrusive memories, aphantasic individuals still reported having some intrusions, however, the sensory qualities of these intrusions were markedly different from individuals with visual imagery. While individuals with visual imagery reported their intrusions as being mostly visual, aphantasic individuals reported mostly verbal intrusions. These findings demonstrate that visual imagery is related to the number of intrusive memories experienced after witnessing a traumatic event, which may have important implications for the development of PTSD. Further, it does appear that aphantasic individuals can experience intrusions, albeit less frequently and in a different format than people with visual imagery.

Authors

  • Rebecca Keogh14
  • Marcus Wicken3
  • Joel Pearson28

Understanding Intrusive Memories and Aphantasia: A New Perspective on PTSD

Overview/Introduction

When we go through traumatic events, some of us may experience persistent, distressing memories known as intrusive memories or flashbacks. These are often visual and are a key feature of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study explores whether people with aphantasia, a condition where individuals lack visual imagery, experience fewer or different intrusive memories compared to those with typical visual imagery.

Methodology

  • Participants: The study involved two groups—25 individuals with aphantasia and 23 individuals with normal visual imagery.
  • Procedure: Participants watched a 10-minute traumatic film depicting a car crash. They then reported any intrusive memories immediately after and over the following week using a mobile app.
  • Assessment: Participants rated the sensory qualities of their intrusions (visual, auditory, verbal, etc.) and their emotional impact.

Key Findings

  • Reduced Intrusions: Aphantasic individuals reported significantly fewer intrusive memories both immediately after watching the film and over the week compared to those with visual imagery.
  • Different Sensory Qualities: While those with visual imagery experienced mainly visual intrusions, aphantasic individuals reported more verbal intrusions.
  • Emotional Impact: The intrusions had a less negative impact on mood and were less distracting for aphantasic individuals, although this was not statistically significant when accounting for age differences.

Implications

  • PTSD Development: The findings suggest that visual imagery plays a crucial role in the development and severity of PTSD. Aphantasic individuals might be less prone to developing PTSD after traumatic events.
  • Treatment Approaches: Traditional PTSD treatments often involve visual imagery techniques. These may need adaptation for aphantasic individuals, who might benefit from different therapeutic strategies.

Limitations

  • Age Differences: The aphantasic group was older on average, which might influence the results. Future studies should control for age more effectively.
  • Generalizability: The study used a specific traumatic film, which may not represent all types of trauma or real-life experiences.
In conclusion, this research highlights the significant role of visual imagery in intrusive memories and PTSD. It opens up new avenues for understanding and treating PTSD, especially for those with aphantasia.