Discrimination of Identikit constructions of faces: Evidence for a dual processing strategy

Abstract

Feature saliency and processing strategy in the recognition of faces are investigated in a "same"-"different" RT paradigm using pairs of faces constructed from Identikit representations. Facial sinailarity is varied by manipulating individual feature changes in pairs of faces. Although there was a general tendency for RT to increase as a function of facial similarity, analysis of RTs to component feature changes suggests a dual processing strategy whereby subjects give processing priority to hairline, eyes and chin, followed by a slower feature-by-feature analysis of eyebrows, nose, and mouth. © 1978 Psychonomic Society, Inc.