Eyes bridge the gap: how eye gaze-induced arousal biases distance perception

Abstract

Previous research has found that distance perception is influenced by nervous system arousal (e.g., spiders increase arousal and are perceived as closer). The purpose of this study is to examine whether eye contact-induced arousal can influence distance perception using stimuli of real people viewed in virtual reality. Participants will view two pictures of a model at either the same or different distance and asked whether the model in the second picture is closer or farther compared to the first picture. To determine whether eye gaze influences distance, the models will be either making direct eye gaze, averted gaze, or no gaze (i.e., looking down). Participants will also have their nervous system arousal recorded. We expect that arousal levels will increase when the participant views the model with direct eye gaze which will consequently bias participants to perceive the model as closer in proximity. This research will be the first to explore the relationship between eye contact, arousal, and distance perception.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michelle Jarick