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Exploring the experiences of autistic and non-autistic aphantasics: A qualitative study
Sheng Zhong1, Katherine Jones2, Kathryn F Knight3
1Social, Genetic, and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, SE5 8AF, UK.
Neuropsychologia
|July 7, 2026
Summary
This study explored the lived experiences of autistic and non-autistic adults with aphantasia. Findings reveal differences in sensory imagery and verbal thinking between groups, highlighting unique cognitive profiles.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neurodiversity Studies
Background:
- Visual imagery, the mental creation of images, is crucial for cognition.
- Aphantasia, the inability to form visual images, is an understudied condition.
- Existing research suggests a link between aphantasia and autistic traits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To qualitatively investigate the experiences of autistic and non-autistic aphantasics.
- To explore potential similarities and differences in their cognitive and emotional experiences.
- To shed light on the mechanisms underlying the intersection of aphantasia and autism.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative framework analysis combined with quantitative methods.
- Online survey data from 25 autistic aphantasics and 25 age-matched non-autistic aphantasics.
- Analysis of questionnaires and an open-ended question.
Main Results:
- Three main themes emerged: imagery, thinking, and emotions/socialization.
- Autistic aphantasics showed higher endorsement of 'verbal thinking'.
- Non-autistic aphantasics showed higher endorsement of 'auditory and other sensory imagery'.
Conclusions:
- This is the first qualitative study on autistic and non-autistic aphantasics.
- Findings suggest distinct experiential differences between the groups.
- Emphasizes diverse cognitive experiences, not deficiencies, in aphantasia and autism.
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