Perception and Motivation in Face Recognition: A Critical Review of Theories of the Cross-Race Effect

Steven G. Young, Kurt Hugenberg, Michael J. Bernstein, Donald F. Sacco

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

159 Scopus citations

Abstract

Although humans possess well-developed face processing expertise, face processing is nevertheless subject to a variety of biases. Perhaps the best known of these biases is the Cross-Race Effect-the tendency to have more accurate recognition for same-race than cross-race faces. The current work reviews the evidence for and provides a critical review of theories of the Cross-Race Effect, including perceptual expertise and social cognitive accounts of the bias. The authors conclude that recent hybrid models of the Cross-Race Effect, which combine elements of both perceptual expertise and social cognitive frameworks, provide an opportunity for theoretical synthesis and advancement not afforded by independent expertise or social cognitive models. Finally, the authors suggest future research directions intended to further develop a comprehensive and integrative understanding of biases in face recognition.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)116-142
Number of pages27
JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Review
Volume16
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2012

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Social Psychology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Perception and Motivation in Face Recognition: A Critical Review of Theories of the Cross-Race Effect'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this