Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026
06:50
Analyzing Neural Activity and Connectivity Using Intracranial EEG Data with SPM Software
Published on: October 30, 2018
Progressive and regressive developmental changes in neural substrates for face processing: testing specific
Jane E Joseph1, Ann D Gathers, Ramesh S Bhatt
1Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Kentucky, Chandler Medical Center, Lexington, KY 40536-0098, USA. jjoseph@email.uky.edu
Developmental Science
|March 15, 2011
Summary
Neurodevelopment of face processing shows dynamic changes, including increases and decreases in brain region specialization with age. These findings support the Interactive Specialization model over maturational theories.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The neural basis of face processing development is not fully understood.
- Previous research focused on age-related increases in specialization, consistent with both Interactive Specialization (IS) and maturational theories.
- Differentiating between these theories requires examining age-related decreases in specialization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate both progressive and regressive changes in brain region specialization during face processing development.
- To differentiate between the Interactive Specialization (IS) and maturational models of neural development.
Main Methods:
- Utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study brain activity during face processing in children and adults.
- Analyzed both increases (progressive) and decreases (regressive) in neural specialization with age.
Main Results:
- Observed both progressive and regressive changes in brain specialization, supporting the IS model.
- Progressive changes were prominent in occipital-fusiform and inferior frontal cortex.
- Regressive changes were mainly identified in parietal and lateral temporal cortices.
- All face-viewing regions in adults were active in children, with some specialized by age 5.
Conclusions:
- Neurodevelopment of face processing involves dynamic interactions and both increases and decreases in regional specialization.
- The observed patterns of change are more consistent with the Interactive Specialization (IS) model than with maturational models.
- Face processing development is characterized by evolving regional involvement and specialization across different ages.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Facial Feedback Hypothesis
Charles Darwin proposed that facial expressions are an evolutionary adaptation for communication. He argued that these expressions are not influenced by culture but are universal across species. For example, a snarling expression with exposed teeth signals a threat in many animals, including humans. Darwin also suggested that displaying an emotion can intensify the feeling. Smiling, for example, could enhance one's sense of happiness. This idea laid the foundation for understanding the role of...
01:24Prosopagnosia
Prosopagnosia, also known as face blindness, is the inability to recognize faces. In severe cases, individuals with prosopagnosia may not recognize close family members, including parents and spouses, by their faces. For instance, someone with prosopagnosia might walk past their child in a crowd, only realizing their mistake upon noticing their child's distinctive backpack or favorite jacket. Prosopagnosia specifically impairs facial recognition, while the recognition of other objects or...
01:20Parallel Processing
The brain processes sensory information rapidly due to parallel processing, which involves sending data across multiple neural pathways at the same time. This method allows the brain to manage various sensory qualities, such as shapes, colors, movements, and locations, all concurrently. For instance, when observing a forest landscape, the brain simultaneously processes the movement of leaves, the shapes of trees, the depth between them, and the various shades of green. This enables a quick and...
01:30Information Processing Approach
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...
01:21Association Areas of the Cortex
Association areas are regions of the cerebral cortex that do not have a specific sensory or motor function. Instead, they integrate and interpret information from various sources to enable higher cognitive processes such as memory, learning, and decision-making. Some key association areas include the following:
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,...
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,...
01:30Cognitive Development During Adulthood
Cognitive development continues throughout adulthood, undergoing significant shifts across early, middle, and late stages. Individual transition occurs from adolescent idealism to pragmatic and adaptable thinking in early adulthood. During this period, individuals learn to integrate personal beliefs with the recognition that other perspectives are equally valid. Exposure to the complexities of modern society, diverse experiences, and higher education contribute to this adaptive thought process,...