The mental representation derived from spatial descriptions is north-up oriented: The role of visuo-spatial abilities

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate: (i) whether a mental representation derived from spatial descriptions was represented according to a specific orientation, and (ii) which kind of visuo-spatial ability dictate such a mental representation. A sample of 148 participants listened to one of four descriptions combining spatial perspectives (survey vs. route) and orientations used to provide information (from south to north [SN] vs. from north to south [NS]). Then they performed pointing (SN- and NS-oriented) and map drawing tasks, and a series of visuo-spatial measures. The results showed that: (i) SN pointing performance was better after both SN and NS descriptions, indicating that information is preferentially represented in a mental map north up oriented even when descriptions are presented in the opposite direction (i.e. from south to north). Perspective-taking was the main spatial ability involved in sustaining the mental representation when participants were required to learn information and to adopt imaginary positions from north to south. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.