How Partners and Opponents Affect Our Perception of Surprised Faces
Author Information
Author(s): Ran Danyang, Zhang Yihan, Hao Bin, Li Shuaixia, Ciorciari Joseph
Primary Institution: Liaoning Normal University
Hypothesis
Surprised faces in partner-related negative contexts would be perceived more negatively than those in positive contexts.
Conclusion
Surprised faces are rated more negatively in partner-related negative contexts compared to opponent- and stranger-related contexts.
Supporting Evidence
- Surprised faces in partner-related negative contexts were rated more negatively than in other contexts.
- The P1 amplitude was larger for surprised faces in negative contexts compared to neutral ones.
- The EPN was enhanced for surprised faces in positive contexts compared to negative and neutral contexts.
- The LPP was larger for surprised faces in positive contexts compared to negative contexts.
Takeaway
When we see surprised faces, who we think the person is matters a lot; if we think they are a friend, we might see their expression as more negative if the situation is bad.
Methodology
Participants rated the valence of surprised faces while EEG data was collected to analyze brain responses.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the self-relevance of participants' perceptions of partners versus strangers.
Limitations
The complexity of the situational materials may have weakened the impact of interpersonal distance on ERP results.
Participant Demographics
35 healthy students (16 females; aged 18–27 years, mean age = 22.11 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website