Mental imagery

Abstract

Abstract This chapter plots a path from theoretical research on the role of working memory in mental imagery to the development of a new imagery-based intervention for motivating behaviour change. The starting point is research testing the idea that vivid imagery requires temporarily storing and manipulating information in working memory. Subsequent research demonstrated that working memory loads affect the vividness and emotional charge of images in similar ways. This association between vividness and emotionality underpinned research on cognitive processes in desire. The chapter explains elaborated intrusion theory, which hypothesizes a central role of imagery in food and drug cravings, and describes empirical tests of the theory that were guided by working memory principles. It then considers how this craving research was applied to the problem of desire more generally and the question of how to strengthen desires for functional goals. A new behaviour change intervention called functional imagery training emerged from this application. Functional imagery training develops individuals’ skills in using imagery to build and sustain motivation to achieve their goals. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the value of theory for guiding applied research and some speculations about how, in turn, applied research in mental health has generated questions that will shape working memory theory in the future.

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