How the gaze of others influences object processing
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

Eye Tracking During Visually Situated Language Comprehension: Flexibility and Limitations in Uncovering Visual Context Effects
Published on: November 30, 2018
Cristina Becchio1, Cesare Bertone, Umberto Castiello
1Centro di Scienza Cognitiva, Dipartimento di Psicologia, Università di Torino, Via Po 14, Torino, Italy.
Abstract:
An aspect of gaze processing, which so far has been given little attention, is the influence that intentional gaze processing can have on object processing. Converging evidence from behavioural neuroscience and developmental psychology strongly suggests that objects falling under the gaze of others acquire properties that they would not display if not looked at. Specifically, observing another person gazing at an object enriches that object of motor, affective and status properties that go beyond its chemical or physical structure. A conceptual analysis of available evidence leads to the conclusion that gaze has the potency to transfer to the object the intentionality of the person looking at it.
Related Concept Videos
Gestalt Principles of Perception
Factors Affecting Perception
An illustrative example of a perceptual set is the scenario where an airline pilot told...
Vision
Association Areas of the Cortex
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
Introducing Social Perception
Depth Perception and Spatial Vision

