The factor structure of visual imagery and spatial abilities

Abstract

[Abstract]: The main aim of the present study was to examine whether a primary Imagery (IM) factor can be identified as a separate dimension of individual differences in the spatial ability domain. A sample of 213 participants was tested. The test battery comprised 26 markers of cognitive ability, five self-report visual imagery questionnaires, seven experimental imagery tasks (accuracy and latency measures), and two creative imagery tasks. Confirmatory factor analysis of this data set supported a five-factor oblique model with latent dimensions corresponding to Visualisation, Speeded Rotation, Speed of Closure, and Visual Memory spatial primaries and a combined Perceptual Speed-Closure Flexibility factor. Principal axis factor analysis of the visual imagery data set indicated the existence of three first-order IM factors, labelled IM Quality (defined by accuracy measures), IM Self-Report (defined by the self-report measures), and IM Speed (defined by latency measures). A second-order confirmatory factor analysis of these constructs suggested that the visual imagery dimensions can be located within the spatial ability domain. The implications of these findings are discussed.