Perceptual load-independent modulation of the facilitated processing of emotional eye regions

Although the eye region has been found to convey sufficient information for emotional recognition and interpersonal communication, little is known regarding the extent to which the prioritized processing of emotional eye regions relies on available attentional resources. To address this issue, the present study used a dual-target rapid serial visual presentation task in which the perceptual load levels of the first target (T1), as well as the valence of the second target (T2), were manipulated. In addition to the traditional event-related potential (ERP) analysis method, the mass univariate statistics approach was employed. Behaviorally, both happy and fearful eye regions were recognized more accurately than neutral eye regions, regardless of the T1 perceptual load. ERP findings revealed an enhanced N170 amplitude for fearful eye regions compared to neutral eye regions, confirming the preferential and automatic processing of fearful signals at the early sensory stage. The late positive potential component exhibited enhanced responses to fearful and happy eye regions, suggesting the amplified representation consolidation in working memory. Collectively, these findings indicate that isolated eye regions are processed automatically to a higher degree owing to their perceptual and motivational significance.