The face inversion effect is not a consequence of aberrant eye movements

Mem Cognit. 2007 Dec;35(8):1977-85. doi: 10.3758/bf03192930.

Abstract

The face inversion effect is the finding that inverted faces are more difficult to recognize than other inverted objects. The present study explored the possibility that eye movements have a role in producing the face inversion effect. In Experiment 1, we demonstrated that the faces used here produce a robust face inversion effect when compared with another homogenous set of objects (antique radios). In Experiment 2, participants' eye movements were monitored while they learned a set of faces and during a recognition test. Although we clearly found a face inversion effect, the same features of a face were fixated during the learning and recognition test faces, whether the face was right side up or upside down. Thus, the face inversion effect is not a result of a different pattern of eye movements during the viewing of the face.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attention*
  • Discrimination Learning*
  • Eye Movements*
  • Face*
  • Humans
  • Memory, Short-Term
  • Orientation*
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual*
  • Reaction Time