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Reverse Dissection and DiceCT Reveal Otherwise Hidden Data in the Evolution of the Primate Face
Published on: January 7, 2019
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Orangutans modify facial displays depending on recipient attention
Bridget M Waller1, Cátia C Caeiro2, Marina Davila-Ross1
1Centre for Comparative and Evolutionary Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Portsmouth , UK.
Peerj
|March 25, 2015
Summary
Primate facial expressions, like the orangutan playface, are not always reflexive. This study shows orangutan facial expressions change based on whether their partner is paying attention, suggesting intentional communication.
Area of Science:
- Primate communication
- Animal behavior
- Cognitive ethology
Background:
- Primate facial expressions are typically viewed as involuntary emotional responses.
- Primate gestures are generally considered intentional and goal-driven.
- Signal production sensitivity to recipient attention is a key indicator of intentionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if primate facial expressions are sensitive to the attentional state of the recipient.
- To determine if orangutan playfaces are produced intentionally.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) Facial Action Coding System (OrangFACS).
- Analyzed facial movement intensity and complexity in relation to recipient attention.
- Compared facial expression production when recipients were attending versus not attending.
Main Results:
- Orangutan facial movements during play were more intense and complex when the recipient was attentive.
- Facial expression production was flexible and context-dependent, not merely automated.
- Sensitivity to attention suggests the orangutan playface is intentionally produced.
Conclusions:
- The orangutan playface production is sensitive to the attentional state of the partner.
- This flexibility challenges the notion of facial expressions as purely reflexive.
- Findings contribute to understanding intentional communication and its evolution in primates.
Keywords:
EmotionFACSFacial displaysFacial expressionGestureIntentionalityLanguage evolutionPrimate communicationPrimate signalsPrimatesMore Related Videos
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