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General and specific factors in the processing of faces
Roeland J Verhallen1, Jenny M Bosten2, Patrick T Goodbourn3
1Department of Psychology, Downing St., Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kingdom.
Vision Research
|January 13, 2017
Summary
Individual differences in face recognition abilities are linked, suggesting a common underlying factor. However, specific face processing tests measure largely independent skills, with holistic processing not correlating with recognition performance.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Genetics
Background:
- Individual differences in face recognition are well-documented.
- The relationship between various face processing abilities remains unclear.
- Previous research has suggested links between holistic processing and face recognition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlations between different face processing tests.
- To identify a potential common factor underlying face recognition performance.
- To examine associations with digit ratio, autism-spectrum quotient (AQ), and genetic factors.
Main Methods:
- Administered four face processing tests (Mooney, GFMT, CFMT, Composite) to 397 participants.
- Analyzed correlations between test scores.
- Conducted genome-wide association study (GWAS) and analyzed associations with digit ratio and AQ.
Main Results:
- Overall performance across tests was significantly correlated, suggesting a common factor (f).
- The Glasgow Face Matching Test (GFMT) and Cambridge Face Memory Test (CFMT) showed strong correlations.
- The GFMT and Mooney test measured largely independent abilities; holistic processing did not correlate with other tests.
- Reported associations with digit ratio, AQ, and suggestive genetic links to face processing and factor f.
Conclusions:
- A common factor (f) influences overall face recognition performance.
- Specific face processing abilities, such as those measured by the GFMT and Mooney test, are distinct.
- The frequently reported link between holistic processing and face recognition was not replicated in this study.
- Face processing performance shows associations with biological and genetic factors.
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