Brain activity underlying face and face pareidolia processing: an ERP study

doi:10.1007/s10072-019-04232-4

Paper

Brain activity underlying face and face pareidolia processing: an ERP study

Published Jan 24, 2020 · G. Akdeniz

Neurological Sciences

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Abstract

Background and purpose Face pareidolia is described as an interpretation of any unrelated object seen for the first time as a face. It is still unclear how to face pareidolia is processed. In this study, the neural basis of face and face pareidolia processing was investigated through recording event-related potentials (ERPs). Methods The ERPs were recorded from 35 right-handed and healthy participants in response to faces and face pareidolia. Amplitudes and latencies of N170, vertex-positive potential (VPP), and N250 components were analyzed, and current source density (CSD) maps relevant to these components were obtained. Results N170 response was earlier and larger in response to faces compared to face pareidolias. VPP is also evoked earlier in response to faces as in the case of N170; however, the VPP amplitude was larger for face pareidolias than for faces. Statistical analyses did not reveal any differences between faces and face pareidolias in terms of N250 component. Conclusion The results indicated that faces and face pareidolias are processed in the early stages of visual perception. In addition, the N250 component does not reflect the neural processing of faces and face pareidolias.

Study Snapshot

Key takeawayFaces and face pareidolias are processed in the early stages of visual perception, with the N250 component not reflecting their neural processing.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Brain activity underlying face and face pareidolia processing: an ERP study

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