Question 1

What exactly is aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Aphantasia is the inability to voluntarily create mental images – also known as having a 'blind mind's eye'. People with aphantasia cannot visually imagine things: when they think of a sunset, they 'see' nothing, but they conceptually know what one looks like. The term was coined in 2015 by Professor Adam Zeman. It is not a disease, but a normal variation of human cognition. Learn more on our information page about aphantasia.

Question 2

How common is aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Scientific studies show that about 2-4% of the population has some form of aphantasia. About 0.8-1% have total aphantasia, where no mental visualization is possible at all. Since many people only learn in adulthood that others can actually 'see images', the actual number may be higher. Interestingly, aphantasia seems to be more common among scientists and programmers.

Question 3

Is aphantasia a disease or disability?

Accepted Answer

No, aphantasia is neither a disease nor a disability. It is not classified as a disorder in the ICD-11 or DSM-5. It is a normal variation of human cognition, similar to left-handedness. Many people with aphantasia lead completely normal, successful lives and often only notice their difference in adulthood when they accidentally learn that others can actually 'see' mental images.

Question 4

What's the difference between aphantasia and poor imagination?

Accepted Answer

With poor imagination, people can still create vague, blurry mental images – they're just less vivid. With aphantasia, however, there are no visual images at all: the mind's eye is completely 'black' or 'switched off'. People with aphantasia conceptually know what things look like, but they 'see' absolutely nothing when they imagine something. It's a qualitative, not just quantitative, difference.

Question 5

Can people with aphantasia dream?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most people with aphantasia can dream, often even visually. This surprises many, but it's neuroscientifically explainable: dreaming and voluntary visualization use different neurological processes. Dreams occur unconsciously and activate visual areas in a different way. However, some aphantasics report less visual or purely conceptual dreams. Dream research in aphantasia is an active research area.

Question 6

What does 'blind mind's eye' or 'mind blindness' mean?

Accepted Answer

These terms figuratively describe what aphantasia means: the inability to 'see' with the 'mind's eye'. When people without aphantasia are asked to imagine a red apple, they 'see' it internally – sometimes sharper, sometimes blurrier. People with aphantasia see nothing in this situation – their mind's eye is 'blind'. But they can still know that an apple is red, round, and shiny – just without an image.

Question 7

Can aphantasia be cured or can visualization be trained?

Accepted Answer

Since aphantasia is not a disease, there is no 'cure'. Some people report slight improvements through intensive image streaming or meditation exercises, but scientific evidence for this is limited and contradictory. Most researchers believe that congenital aphantasia cannot be fundamentally changed. Most affected people instead learn to use alternative cognitive strategies – and many don't experience their aphantasia as a disadvantage at all.

Question 8

Who discovered aphantasia and when was it named?

Accepted Answer

Although the phenomenon was described by Sir Francis Galton as early as 1880, British neurologist Professor Adam Zeman coined the term 'aphantasia' in 2015 (from the Greek 'a-' for 'without' and 'phantasia' for 'imagination'). Zeman discovered it when a patient lost his mental imagery after surgery. The publication sparked worldwide interest – thousands of people came forward who recognized they too cannot create mental images.

Question 9

How can I tell if I have aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

The best first step is our VVIQ test (Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire). If you consistently choose the lowest values on this scientifically validated test (1 out of 5 – 'No image, you just know you are thinking of the object'), it strongly indicates aphantasia. For a more comprehensive assessment, we also recommend our PSIQ test, which covers all senses.

Question 10

What is the VVIQ test and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

The VVIQ (Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire) is the most commonly used scientific questionnaire for measuring visual imagery. You are asked to imagine various scenes (e.g., a friend's face, a sunrise) and rate the vividness on a scale of 1-5. A total score below 32 (out of 80 possible) indicates aphantasia. Take our free VVIQ test now.

Question 11

What does the PSIQ test measure and how does it differ from the VVIQ?

Accepted Answer

The PSIQ (Plymouth Sensory Imagery Questionnaire) is more comprehensive than the VVIQ and measures imagery across all senses – not just visual, but also auditory (sounds), olfactory (smells), gustatory (tastes), and haptic (touch). This is important because some people cannot create visual images but can 'simulate' other senses well. Test all your senses with the PSIQ test.

Question 12

What is the Binocular Rivalry test?

Accepted Answer

The Binocular Rivalry test is an objective test that doesn't rely on self-assessment. In this test, different images are shown to each eye – typically a red and green pattern. People with vivid imagery can influence which image they perceive as dominant by imagining it. People with aphantasia cannot do this. This test is considered one of the most objective aphantasia indicators.

Question 13

Is there a medical test or official diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

There is no standardized medical test or formal 'diagnosis' for aphantasia, as it is not considered a disease. Assessment is mainly based on validated self-report questionnaires like VVIQ and PSIQ. Research studies additionally use imaging techniques (fMRI), but these are not intended for everyday assessment. Our self-tests provide a reliable initial assessment.

Question 14

Should I see a doctor if I think I have aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

A doctor's visit is usually not necessary if you've always been this way. BUT: if your visual imagery has suddenly disappeared (after trauma, surgery, stroke, or illness), you should definitely consult a neurologist – this could indicate acquired aphantasia or other neurological problems. Otherwise, aphantasia is not a condition requiring treatment.

Question 15

How reliable are self-tests for detecting aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

The VVIQ and PSIQ tests are scientifically validated and used in research worldwide. They have high test-retest reliability, meaning people achieve similar results upon repetition. However, they are based on self-assessment, which is a challenge for such a subjective phenomenon. That's why we recommend also taking the more objective Binocular Rivalry test.

Question 16

Does aphantasia affect my creativity?

Accepted Answer

No, not necessarily – and often quite the opposite! Many highly creative people have aphantasia, including Ed Catmull (Pixar co-founder), Blake Ross (Firefox developer), and author Penn Jillette. People with aphantasia often use different cognitive strategies for creative thinking: conceptual thinking, verbal descriptions, or they work directly with the medium (sketches, prototypes). More on our page about living with aphantasia.

Question 17

Can I read and enjoy books with aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many people with aphantasia are avid readers. The reading experience works differently: instead of seeing 'movies in their head', aphantasics understand the story on a conceptual, emotional level. Some report that detailed visual descriptions appeal to them less than plot- and character-driven stories. Interestingly, some successful authors are themselves aphantasics.

Question 18

How does aphantasia affect memory?

Accepted Answer

People with aphantasia often have a different memory experience. Instead of visually 'reliving' past scenes (episodic memory), they remember facts and information about the event. This is sometimes called 'Severely Deficient Autobiographical Memory' (SDAM). However, semantic memory (factual knowledge) is typically not impaired. Many affected people develop compensatory strategies like written diaries or photos.

Question 19

Can I remember faces and recognize people?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most people with aphantasia can recognize and identify faces. Face recognition uses different brain areas (fusiform gyrus) than conscious visualization. You recognize someone even if you can't retrieve their face 'in your mind's eye'. However, some aphantasics report difficulty describing faces when the person isn't present. This should not be confused with prosopagnosia (face blindness).

Question 20

Are there advantages to having aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several potential advantages are reported: People with aphantasia are often less susceptible to traumatic flashbacks and unwanted visual memories (potentially protective against PTSD). They often think very fact-based and analytically. They are less distracted by irrelevant visual imaginations. And they may have a more objective view of the past, since memories are not 'colored' by vivid images.

Question 21

How do I explain aphantasia to family and friends?

Accepted Answer

A proven explanation: 'When you imagine an apple, you see it in your mind's eye – sometimes sharper, sometimes blurrier. For me, it's different: I know everything about the apple – that it's red, round, and shiny – but I see absolutely nothing. My mind's eye is like a switched-off screen.' The 'Apple Test' is often a good conversation starter. More tips on our info page.

Question 22

Can I meditate or do visualization exercises with aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but differently than 'image-based' meditation. Many aphantasics successfully practice mindfulness meditation that focuses on body sensations, breathing, or sounds. Guided visualization meditations often don't work in the literal sense, but some use them conceptually. Yoga, body scan meditation, and breathing exercises are particularly suitable alternatives for people without mental images.

Question 23

Can aphantasia affect my relationships?

Accepted Answer

Aphantasia can have subtle effects: some partners feel hurt when the aphantasic says they can't picture their face. Communication is key: it doesn't mean you love or miss them less – you just experience it differently. People with aphantasia often miss others just as intensely, just without the visual component. Knowing about aphantasia can resolve misunderstandings and lead to deeper mutual understanding.

Question 24

Is aphantasia congenital or can it be acquired?

Accepted Answer

Both are possible. The majority have congenital aphantasia and never knew what mental images 'look like'. Acquired aphantasia can occur after brain injuries, strokes, surgeries, or psychological trauma – Professor Zeman's original case was a patient who lost his imagery after heart surgery. Acquired aphantasia is often experienced as more distressing since the comparison to 'normal' perception is known.

Question 25

Which brain regions are different in aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Neuroimaging studies show that in aphantasia, activity in the visual cortex is reduced during imagery tasks – although the areas are structurally normal. Particularly, connections between the prefrontal cortex (which 'requests' the imagination) and visual areas (which 'generate' images) seem to be weaker or function differently. Research is currently investigating whether this is due to fewer connections or different signal pathways.

Question 26

Is aphantasia genetically hereditary?

Accepted Answer

There are clear indications of a genetic component. Studies show that aphantasia runs in families: first-degree relatives of aphantasics have about a 10-fold increased probability of also being affected. Specific genes have not yet been identified, but research is ongoing. Aphantasia is likely polygenic, meaning caused by the interplay of multiple genes. More on current research.

Question 27

What is hyperphantasia and how does it relate to aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Hyperphantasia is the opposite of aphantasia: an extremely vivid, detailed mental imagery ability. People with hyperphantasia create images that feel almost as real as actual seeing – some can even 'overlay' their visual field with them. Imagery exists on a spectrum from total aphantasia (0 visualization) through average to hyperphantasia (maximum visualization). Learn more on our hyperphantasia page.

Question 28

What is multi-sensory or total aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

While classic aphantasia concerns visual imagination, some people have extended or 'total' aphantasia that also encompasses other senses: they cannot mentally 'hear' sounds either (auditory aphantasia), 'smell' scents, or 'feel' touches. The PSIQ test can help determine which senses are affected. Learn more about the different forms of aphantasia.

Question 29

How is aphantasia currently being researched?

Accepted Answer

Aphantasia research has boomed since 2015. Current focus areas include: neuroimaging studies (fMRI) to understand brain activity; genetic studies on heritability; connections with memory and SDAM; objective tests like Binocular Rivalry; and prevalence studies in different populations. Leading research groups exist at the University of Exeter (Prof. Zeman), UNSW Sydney, and other institutions worldwide. More on our research page.

Question 30

Which careers are suitable for people with aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Aphantasia hardly limits career choices – successful aphantasics work in almost all fields, including visually creative professions. However, many affected people report strengths in analytical areas: programming, science, mathematics, law, engineering. Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar, is a famous example that even animation is possible. The key often lies in working with external aids rather than internal images.

Question 31

Are there tools or apps for people with aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Although there are no specific 'aphantasia apps', many affected people use the following strategies: extensive photo documentation (memory aid); vision boards and mood boards (external visualization); text-based notes instead of mind maps; 3D modeling software for spatial thinking; voice memos for ideas. The community regularly shares tips – check our forum for current recommendations.

Question 32

How can I improve my memory despite aphantasia?

Accepted Answer

Since classic visual memory techniques (memory palace, visual mnemonics) often don't work, aphantasics use alternative strategies: verbal repetition and stories; categorization and logical connections; written notes and lists; spaced repetition apps (Anki); linking with emotions or body sensations; audio recordings. Experiment to find out what works best for you.

Question 33

How do I handle guided visualizations (e.g., in therapy)?

Accepted Answer

When a therapist or instructor offers visualization exercises, open communication is important. Explain your aphantasia and ask for alternatives: instead of 'Imagine a safe place', it could be 'Describe or think about the qualities of a safe place'. Many exercises can be adapted to conceptual or body-focused approaches. A good therapist will be able to adjust.

Question 34

Can aphantasia affect my mental health?

Accepted Answer

Aphantasia itself does not cause mental health conditions. However, realizing you're 'different' can initially be unsettling. Interestingly, studies show that aphantasics may be less susceptible to image-based anxiety disorders and PTSD flashbacks. If you're seeking support, our forum can be helpful – connecting with others who share the experience is often found to be very valuable.

Question 35

Where can I find community and connect with other aphantasics?

Accepted Answer

You're not alone! In addition to our forum, there are internationally active communities: the Aphantasia Network website and Facebook group; Reddit r/Aphantasia; local meetup groups in larger cities. Connecting with others who share the experience can be very enlightening – many report 'aha moments' when they share experiences. Also check our community page for resources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aphantasia

Learn More About Aphantasia

Frequently Asked Questions About Aphantasia

Learn More About Aphantasia