Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 13, 2025

Creating Virtual-hand and Virtual-face Illusions to Investigate Self-representation
Published on: March 1, 2017
Recognizing Genuine From Posed Facial Expressions: Exploring the Role of Dynamic Information and Face Familiarity
Karen Lander1, Natalie L Butcher2
1Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
The accurate recognition of emotion is important for interpersonal interaction and when navigating our social world. However, not all facial displays reflect the emotional experience currently being felt by the expresser. Indeed, faces express both genuine and posed displays of emotion. In this article, we summarize the importance of motion for the recognition of face identity before critically outlining the role of dynamic information in determining facial expressions and distinguishing between genuine and posed expressions of emotion. We propose that both dynamic information and face familiarity may modulate our ability to determine whether an expression is genuine or not. Finally, we consider the shared role for dynamic information across different face recognition tasks and the wider impact of face familiarity on determining genuine from posed expressions during real-world interactions.
Related Concept Videos
Facial Feedback Hypothesis
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,...
Understanding Deception
Muscles for Facial Expressions
Nonconscious Mimicry
Causes of Social Behavior I: Actions and Characteristics of Individuals

