Aspects of Inner Experience: Autokinesis, Daydreaming, Dream Recall and Cognitive Style
Perceptual and Motor Skills April 1, 1973 DOI: 10.2466/pms.1973.36.2.663 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe study examined whether autokinetic perception—a visual illusion where a stationary point of light appears to move—relates to inner experiences such as daydreaming, dream recall, and psychological differentiation. Results showed little correlational support for the hypothesized connection between autokinesis and these aspects of inner life. Factor analysis revealed that autokinetic perception was independent of other measures. The authors replicated previously reported styles of daydreaming and noted some qualitative similarities between waking fantasies and dream content.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Observational study Qualitative Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Autokinetic perception showed little correlation with daydreaming, dream recall, or psychological differentiation, and factor analysis indicated it is an independent factor. |
Abstract
Voth and Mayman have reported two pervasive styles of relating to the external environment which are best measured by the autokinetic effect, and have related autokinesis to broad aspects of inner life. The concern of this study is whether autokinetic perception is a meaningful measure of inner experience and how it relates to daydreaming, dream recall, and psychological differentiation. Patterns of inner experience are sought. Results show little correlational support for the hypothesized relatedness of autokinesis with diverse aspects of inner experience. Factor analysis yields an autokinetic factor independent of the other measures. Styles of daydreaming reported by Singer and Antrobus are replicated and some qualitative similarities are noted between waking and sleeping fantasy lives.