Form perception is an important capability that is involved in everyday tasks such as reading, driving and recognizing familiar faces. The application of linear systems models of form perception that are based on measurements of the infant contrast sensitivity function have led researchers to a deeper understanding of the development of infants' ability to detect information in their environment and the development of basic visual processes. Despite this success, recent data suggest that linear systems models may need to be modified to be applicable to high contrast, suprathreshold stimuli. This modification is important because most objects in the real world are high in contrast, and hence easily detected by infants. The main goal of Dr. Stephens' project is to identify the modifications needed by linear systems models to extend them to more real world situations. This project addresses three important and closely related lines of research. The first involves the development and function of contrast constancy in infants. The second line of research is concerned with the development of form discrimination. The third area of investigation is designed to test the application of contrast sensitivity based models to the development of infant face preferences.
