Visual deprivation negatively affects mental health and heightens other senses
Evidence from psychological and neurobiological literature demonstrates that visual and sensory deprivation can impair mental health, trigger cognitive deficits and hallucinations, and foster crossmodal neuroplasticity where other senses adapt or compensate.
The claim addresses two components regarding visual and sensory deprivation: negative effects on mental health and heightened/altered processing in other senses. Multiple papers support both aspects: sensory deprivation is linked to psychological distress, anxiety, depression, and hallucinations (Papers 6, 7), while crossmodal plasticity demonstrates that the brain reorganizes to enhance processing in spared sensory modalities following visual deprivation (Papers 1, 2, 3). Thus, the claim is well-supported by the literature.
Valeria Vinogradova, Velia Cardin. Crossmodal Plasticity, Sensory Experience, and Cognition. 2024. https://doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780190264086.013.401
Paper [3] indicates that sensory deprivation, such as in congenital blindness or deafness, impacts cognitive processes like working memory and attention.
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Hamamra B, Shehab E, Nairat A, Shubairi S. Hypervigilance and resistance among palestinian former prisoners.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44192-026-00428-1
Paper [6] demonstrates that sensory deprivation used as carceral torture leads to profound psychological distress, hallucinations, and lasting trauma.
Marazziti D, Russomanno G, Gambini M, Digiuseppe FR, Fazio E, Gurrieri R. Sensory Deprivation and the Brain: Neurobiological Mechanisms, Psychological Effects, and Clinical Implications.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16020122
Paper [7] reviews evidence showing that sensory deprivation increases vulnerability to depression, anxiety, hallucinations, and cognitive impairment.
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