What is it like to have no inner voice or dialogue known as Anauralia (silent mind) or Anendophasia (lack of inner speech)? Many of us don’t even think about that question, as having an inner voice is something that is intrinsically part of us. How many times have you had a complete conversation with yourself and even responded to someone in your head differently than you do in the real world? I know that I do several times a day. Having an inner voice can also aid in your decision-making, processing your thoughts, and self-reflection.
For those of us who have an internal dialogue, it can help with problem-solving planning. Additionally, people without an inner voice think differently. Since they do not hear words internally, they may process thoughts through feelings, non-verbal concepts, or images. Research has shown that people without an inner voice might still have some verbal thinking. This might be in such cases as preparing to give a speech. However, they do not have do not have an ongoing, involuntary stream of words in their minds.
Numerous psychological and neurobiological studies have explored inner speech and its variations. Individuals who have a stronger inner voice have more activation in the brain's language centers than those who just engage in silent reading. For individuals without an inner dialogue, other brain regions, like those that focus more on visual processing or emotions, may be more dominant. Having no inner voice can also affect self-awareness. Inner speech often allows you to engage in better decision-making, moral reasoning, and self-reflection. Without it, individuals may rely on more gut feelings, visual memories, or even emotional intuition to guide their actions.
Having no inner voice is a variation that shapes how people process thoughts, communicate, and interact with the world. Having inner speech is something that is common amongst most. However, its absence does not necessarily mean that someone has a deficiency; it is most certainly an alternative way of thinking and processing information. Understanding how we as humans differ in our communication can help give a greater appreciation for the diversity of cognition. Additionally, this encourages more inclusive approaches to communication and education.
References
Killian, K. (April 25, 2023). How inner monologues work, and who has them. Psychology
Riley, D. (2004). “A voice without a mouth”: Inner Speech. Qui Parle, 14(2), 57–104.
CBS News Saskatchewan (March 06, 2020) What it's like living without an inner monologue.
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