Perceiving social signals: The similarity of direct gazing and pointing

Gazing and pointing can have overlapping functions in social interaction. The perception of both social cues is remarkably precise. Nevertheless, the perception of direct gaze is characterized by an area of direct gaze rather than one single gaze direction. In fact, observers accept a range of gaze directions as direct. Here, we investigate whether there is an analogous area of direct pointing. Three experiments examine an area of direct pointing (about 5-9°) and compare it to the area of direct gaze. We find this area to be similar, but not equal, in shape and size. Furthermore, we examine the influence of different pointing gestures on the area of direct pointing. Results indicate a shift of the area of direct pointing dependent on the used limb (left or right). The results are discussed with respect to common underlying mechanisms of the perception of direct gaze and direct pointing.