Evie Hannigan
This research looks at the differences between Generative AI and human faces through visual attention and emotion recognition. It is becoming increasingly challenging for the brain to differentiate between AI-generated and real faces with the rise of hyperrealism. Despite previous studies suggesting that people could easily tell the difference between humans and AI, this is no longer accurate. By using the eye-tracking technology, the project examines whether our visual systems are confused by AI-generated faces. Ultimately, this research is necessary to help prevent the risks of AI deception in digital fraud and disinformation.
This study aimed to examine the differences in face type (human vs AI-generated) and emotion category (positive, negative, and neutral) on visual attention and recognition accuracy.
It employed a quantitative, within-groups factorial design using an eye-tracking method. Data from 33 participants (age range: 19–27, M = 22.06) were used for statistical analyses. Participants viewed 12 facial images while a Tobii Pro Spark eye tracker measured fixation durations on diagnostic features like the eyes and mouth. Participants also categorised each face as "human" or "AI" to measure accuracy.
Results suggested that the human visual system treats AI and human faces almost identically. It was found that there was no significant difference in how long participants fixated on either face type. However, the emotion category affected visual attention and had participants fixating longer on positive expressions, regardless of whether the face was real or AI.
Participants demonstrated significantly higher recognition accuracy for human faces compared to AI-generated ones, despite the visual similarity. This result indicates that higher-order cognitive pathways can still detect small AI triggers that the eyes miss.
Ultimately, the findings may help the development of transparency laws to prevent fraud.
Hi, my name is Evie Hannigan. I am a final-year BSc (Hons) Applied Psychology student at IADT. While completing this course, I have gained experience in both research and clinical work.
I was able to use advanced eye-tracking technology and took part in a placement with a Clinical Psychologist. Due to these opportunities, I have been able to develop skills in both data collection and clinical practice.
These experiences have helped create a passion for understanding human behaviour. My goal after I graduate is to gain placement experience before pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology.
