Status is fine for the in-group but out-group members watch out: Examining an optimal model of face processing using eye-tracking

Face recognition is an important factor in everyday social interaction. Bruce and Young\u27s (1986) model of face processing has been largely accepted as a model for face processing, however, it fails to account for differential processing based on race. MacLin and MacLin (in press) propose the presence of a cognitive gating mechanism (CGM) that suggests different processing strategies are used for in-group and out-group members. To date, the model has only been examined using novel stimuli. The present research examined the model using famous and nonfamous African-American and Caucasian faces to determine if the CGM adequately explains the recognition of familiar faces. Reaction times and eye-movements were recorded while participants completed a racial categorization task or famousness classification task. Results indicate that familiarity with a face indeed plays a role in the processing of own- and other-race faces. Reaction times and eye-movements differed as a function of race, fame, and task type. Implications for a modified version of the CGM and other existing face models are discussed