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Comparison of two multidimensional coordinate systems for facial expressions
D Bimler1, J Kirkland, E Barraclough
1Department of Human Development Studies, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|February 1, 1996
Summary
This study found that people represent facial expressions using a rectilinear model, not a polar coordinate system. This suggests a more structured internal representation of emotions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Human Perception
Background:
- Understanding the internal representation of facial expressions is crucial for cognitive science.
- Previous models have proposed both rectilinear and circumplex structures for emotional representation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether individuals internally represent facial expressions using a rectilinear or circumplex model.
- To determine the coordinate system most compatible with human perception of facial emotions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 24 Lightfoot photographs depicting various facial expressions.
- Collected data from 20 subjects on their perception of midpoint pairs.
- Calculated the 'distance' between options and predicted midpoints for both models.
Main Results:
- The collected data showed a higher compatibility with the rectilinear model.
- Respondents' judgments aligned more closely with a system based on orthogonal axes.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that the rectilinear model is a better fit for representing facial expressions internally.
- Individuals likely do not use polar coordinates for internal emotional representation, favoring a more structured, grid-like system.