What can virtual reality reveal about perceptual differences in Aphantasia: A qualitative study

Mental imagery refers to the cognitive capacity to reproduce representations similar to those formed during perception. Aphantasic individuals experience a complete absence or significant difficulties in generating visual mental imagery. Their inner perceptual experiences differ notably from those of the general population. However, these experiences have remained largely unexplored. In this study, we employed a Virtual Reality (VR) drawing task using OpenBrush to investigate perceptual differences among aphantasic individuals. Four participants (aged 21–29; two male, two female) completed the drawing task in a VR environment. We used qualitative reflective thematic analysis to identify patterns in the data, supported by three supplementary questionnaires: the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire (VVIQ), the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), and the Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire (GSQ). Three key themes emerged: (1) black in the mind; (2) stick to the specific references; and (3) influences from trained drawing skills. Further individual differences were revealed through participants’ drawing outputs. The VR drawing task proved effective in directly accessing and representing inner perceptual experiences. By offering an immersive, first-person perspective, Virtual Reality allowed participants to externalize their internal worlds. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the perceptual experiences of aphantasic individuals.