Reach trajectories reveal delayed processing of low spatial frequency faces in developmental prosopagnosia

Bhuvanesh Awasthi, Jason Friedman, Mark A. Williams

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Developmental prosopagnosia (DP) is characterized by a selective deficit in face recognition despite normal cognitive and neurological functioning. Previous research has established configural processing deficits in DP subjects. Low spatial frequency (LSF) information subserves configural face processing. Using hybrid stimuli, here we examined the evolution of perceptual dynamics and integration of LSF information by DP subjects while they pointed to high spatial frequency (HSF) face targets. Permutation analysis revealed a 230-ms delay in LSF processing by DP subjects as compared to controls. This delayed processing is likely to contribute to the difficulties associated with face recognition in DP subjects and is reflective of their alleged reliance on local rather than global features in face perception. These results suggest that quick and efficient processing of LSF information is critical for the development of normal face perception.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)120-130
Number of pages11
JournalCognitive Neuroscience
Volume3
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Developmental prosopagnosia
  • Face processing
  • Reach trajectories
  • Spatial frequency

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Cognitive Neuroscience

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Reach trajectories reveal delayed processing of low spatial frequency faces in developmental prosopagnosia'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this