The Role of Learning in Grapheme-Color Synesthesia: A Literature Review

Abstract

Grapheme-color synesthesia is a perceptual phenomenon in which individuals, known as synesthetes, automatically experience the perception of a particular color when viewing a specific grapheme, forming an inducer-concurrent relationship. This unique phenomenon has intrigued researchers for decades, leading to numerous studies that aims to uncover its underlying mechanisms, including research from neurological perspectives to cognitive perspectives. One crucial aspect that has attracted significant attention is the role of learning in shaping this inducer-concurrent relationship. Hence, this literature review aims to explore various perspectives on how learning influences this condition through the examination of empirical research, theoretical models, and neurobiological evidence.