Researchers from Drexel University’s College of Nursing and Health Professions conducted a study to explore how personal life experiences impact an individual’s perception of imagery, specifically focusing on decorated masks. The study, published in Frontiers in Psychology, analyzed viewer responses to images of distressing and neutrally decorated masks to understand how past trauma influences how individuals perceive visual stimuli. The research team found that traumatic life events do affect the perception of trauma-related imagery, with neutral imagery generally evoking less emotional response compared to images depicting injury or trauma.
Lead by Girija Kaimal and Asli Arslanbek-Evci, the team discovered the importance of personal experiences of trauma in shaping individuals’ responses to visual imagery. This research has implications for health care providers and caregivers in understanding the vulnerabilities and sensitivities of individuals with a history of trauma. By incorporating these findings, researchers can better understand the differences in brain function and structure associated with traumatic experiences, leading to improved therapeutic practices and support for trauma recovery. The study also highlights society’s collective sensitivities to the impact of viewing distressing images.
The study revealed that responses to mask imagery were influenced by viewers’ personal history of adversity and trauma, with images representing injury or trauma eliciting stronger emotional responses compared to neutral images. Participants in the study completed an anonymous online survey rating mask images and disclosing traumatic events they had experienced, witnessed, or heard about. The images included artwork created by military service members with traumatic brain injury and PTSD, depicting various forms of injuries. Nearly 700 participants rated the masks in terms of arousal, emotional response, and perceived personal relevance.
The use of mask imagery was chosen because they mimic the human face and are linked to distinct brain pathways related to recognition, empathy, and responses to pain. In the field of art therapy, mask-making is recognized as a safe and effective medium for self-expression and psychological exploration. The researchers emphasized the impact of imagery in mass communications, public health, and mental health care, as evocative images have the power to evoke personal connections and activate emotions associated with past experiences. They hope that future research will explore how age, gender, type of trauma history, and different types of imagery influence individuals’ responses.
Overall, the study sheds light on the intricate relationship between personal life experiences, trauma history, and the perception of visual imagery. By understanding how trauma impacts individuals’ responses to distressing images, healthcare providers can better support those with traumatic experiences. The research also emphasizes the powerful role of imagery in triggering emotional responses and promoting personal connections, underscoring the need for further exploration into how different factors influence individuals’ reactions to visual stimuli.
