They are not able to visualize in their minds the face of a loved one, nor the place where they grew up, or even their favorite spaces from their last trip abroad. That is, they cannot see any image in their mind. This is the life of people who have aphantasia or aphantasia, who make up only between 1 and 3% of the population. These people deprived of imagination experience the consequences of a very rare neurological deficit that, as psychologist Blanca Alcanda explains, causes their imagination to be blind. Although they are able to describe objects or explain related concepts, they cannot generate an image of it.
This would lead one to think that people with aphantasia are not capable of something as common and ordinary as having dreams. But the specialist reveals that research carried out in this regard determines that, although this neurological problem can affect them, it does not mean that it prevents them. Which leads to the conclusion that this condition mainly affects the viewing of intentional images.
Individuals who present this neurological deficit that causes aphantasia tend to show similar symptoms. One of the most common aspects is not being able to clearly evoke the image of a family member or friend when thinking about them. The same happens with specific situations or even movements, not even in specific details, according to Blanca Alcanda. In these cases it would be advisable to undergo a medical analysis to make an appropriate diagnosis.
There are several theories about why cases of aphantasia occur. This may be due to a congenital condition, so it would be present from birth. However, the psychologist adds the possibility that it could be a brain injury or certain psychological disorders that could cause its development.
People who suffer from aphantasia are not able to evoke visual images, so this limitation causes them distress and negatively affects them. Mainly due to the relationship of this fact with memories, such as the faces of loved ones or moments linked to happy and joyful events. Furthermore, this fact also entails certain consequences in the learning process, potentially making it somewhat more complicated and making certain aspects more difficult, thus generating a blockage.
The specialist advises going to a professional psychologist in a case of aphantasia, despite it not being something that requires treatment itself. Although she specifies that this condition should not affect people’s quality of life, nor their physical or mental health.
