Week #7 Results and Representation
J Burns -
I have been able to interview or survey 5 synesthetes by now. Because most synesthetes experience multiple types (and the likelihood for having another type is 50% if you have a previous type), it was no surprise that some of my interviewees commented they have at least 14 types.
They were also informed that the crossover in gyruses is the reason for which they have synesthesia. I got two “categories” of answers pertaining to how long they’ve experienced it. Some said specific years. Estimates, certainly, but toddler ages when they remember synesthesia for the first time. Others didn’t provide a specific year, but spoke to thinking their associations and senses were normal until young adulthood. This indicates to me that they don’t remember a specific year as a result of never having to remember it as something other or unlike others.
When I asked about other kinds of synesthesia should be considered together (induced and learned), there was a consensus that induced synesthesia shouldn’t count. There were conflicting opinions on learned synesthesia. This is interesting because unlike either other category, it is not from birth, however, the brain pathways are associated with this. This is where the topic of neuroplasticity comes into focus. I have taken out a few more books on this matter and intend on reading them this week.
Through these surveys, I also found that those with color synesthesia always described themselves as artists. Some said they were unsure if one had to do with the other (their identity is inseparable from synesthete), and a few said synesthesia was the only reason they perceived themselves as such. Most of them did also self-identify as neurodivergent, although they had various reasons that rarely lined up for doing so.
I’ve been surprised by the amount of synesthesia representation I’ve seen recently, though. Over spring break, I went to an interactive art exhibit called the color factory. I actually didn’t know prior to reading the signage in certain rooms that it’s largely made with the help of synesthetes. I highly recommend these exhibits to anyone able to go. It truly gave me perspective on how those with color synesthesia perceive the world (and involved other senses like taste, smell, and tactile as well). It’s very engaging, and maybe, it will encourage you to see the synesthesia influences in the world around you.
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