The two-process theory of face processing: Modifications based on two decades of data from infants and adults

Abstract

Johnson and Morton (1991. Biology and Cognitive Development: The Case of Face Recognition. Blackwell, Oxford) used Gabriel Horn's work on the filial imprinting model to inspire a two-process theory of the development of face processing in humans. In this paper we review evidence accrued over the past two decades from infants and adults, and from other primates, that informs this two-process model. While work with newborns and infants has been broadly consistent with predictions from the model, further refinements and questions have been raised. With regard to adults, we discuss more recent evidence on the extension of the model to eye contact detection, and to subcortical face processing, reviewing functional imaging and patient studies. We conclude with discussion of outstanding caveats and future directions of research in this field.

The Human Fetus Preferentially Engages with Face-like Visual Stimuli

“…There has been much debate on how and why this preference is present in the emerging visual system [23,24]. A comprehensive review of two decades of research offers an extension to the original theoretical model put forward in explanation of newborn face preference [25]. The underlying assumptions in much of the newborn visual literature are (1) that no visual experience has taken place prior to birth and (2) that the examination of fetal visual capacities is not possible.…”

Numerosity representation is encoded in human subcortex

“…69). A well-known account of face processing (70) posits two processes: the first is a predisposition in newborns to orient toward faces (termed CONSPEC; face detection, subcortical system), and the second is an acquired specialization for other aspects of face processing (termed CONLEARN; face recognition and processing, cortical system).…”

Preterm birth is associated with atypical social orienting in infancy detected using eye tracking

“…Oculomotor orienting (gaze) behaviour is a critical control point for intake of visual information and its assessment in response to visual stimuli can be used to make inferences about underlying cognitive processes including preference, memory, attention and processing speed (Liversedge & Findlay, 2000;Fletcher-Watson, Findlay, Leekam, & Benson, 2008;Fletcher-Watson, Leekam, Benson, Frank, & Findlay, 2009;Johnson, Senju, & Tomalski, 2015). In the developmental trajectory of social cognition visual attention is given to faces very soon after birth, with specific attention paid to the eye region; and later in infancy at around 6-9 months a preference for looking at faces within multiple object arrays or animated scenes develops (Johnson, Dziurawiec, Ellis, & Morton, 1991;Farroni, Csibra, Simion, & Johnson, 2002;Gliga, Elsabbagh, Andravizou, & Johnson, 2009;Frank, Vul, & Johnson, 2009); for review see .…”