The conceptual structure of face impressions
Abstract
Current theory of face-based trait impressions focuses on their foundation in facial morphology, from which emerges a correlation structure of face impressions due to shared feature dependence, "face trait space." Here, we proposed that perceivers' lay conceptual beliefs about how personality traits correlate structure their face impressions. We demonstrate that "conceptual trait space" explains a substantial portion of variance in face trait space. Further, we find that perceivers who believe any set of personality traits (e.g., trustworthiness, intelligence) is more correlated in others use more similar facial features when making impressions of those traits. These findings suggest lay conceptual beliefs about personality play a crucial role in face-based trait impressions and may underlie both their similarities and differences across perceivers.
- Publication:
-
Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
- Pub Date:
- September 2018
- DOI:
- 10.1073/pnas.1807222115
- Bibcode:
- 2018PNAS..115.9210S