A Theoretical Exploration of Aphantasia’s Polygenic Basis: Introducing the ‘Aphantasia-Plus’ Hypothesis

This paper introduces a speculative, testable theoretical framework—the “Aphantasia-Plus Hypothesis”—proposing that aphantasia arises as a polygenic neurodevelopmental phenotype involving multiple genes affecting cortical connectivity, sensory processing, and neurotransmitter function. Drawing on published research in genetics, neuroimaging, autism spectrum studies, and ADHD, the author integrates personal genetic data and literature review into a coherent model of aphantasia as part of a broader cognitive architecture subtype. The model proposes developmental timing effects, compensatory plasticity, and cognitive advantages associated with specific gene clusters. While theoretical in nature, the hypothesis generates clear predictions for future empirical study, and is intended to broaden discussion and guide research in the genetic foundations of imagery diversity.