Adaptive processes in normal and disordered face perception [ 2008 - 2012 ]

Research Grant

Researchers Prof GI Rhodes; Dr E Pellicano; Dr D Leopold

Brief description Faces provide a wealth of social cues that guide interpersonal interactions, and most individuals are able to distinguish thousands of faces despite their perceptual similarity. This research investigates the foundations of these impressive face-perception skills and how they are disrupted in autism, a developmental disorder in which face perception is impaired. We focus on how the brain adaptively tailors its perceptual apparatus to interpret the structure of a face, for its identity, emotional content, and even intent. Uncovering how these processes function in normal and abnormal face perception could help develop effective interventions when these processes are disrupted in autism.

Funding Amount $739,500

Funding Scheme Discovery Projects