Interpretation of Ambiguous Visual Scenes

A recent study examined the factors influencing how individuals perceive complex visual scenes. Researchers presented participants with ambiguous images that could be interpreted in multiple ways, such as the well-known 'Duck-Rabbit' figure. Depending on various emotional and environmental cues, participants demonstrated differing interpretations of the same scenes. The researchers aimed to determine whether these variations in perception were more strongly influenced by individual personality traits or by immediate contextual factors.

The findings suggested that participants with high levels of openness to experience were more likely to interpret ambiguous images flexibly and creatively, while those with higher levels of conscientiousness tended to adhere to more conventional interpretations. This suggests a complex interplay between innate cognitive styles and external influences on perception.

Based on this study, which cognitive aspect is most likely responsible for the differing interpretations of ambiguous imagery among individuals?