Processing of facial expressions of emotion in autism

Facial expressions of emotion are an important means of communication. In social interactions, we monitor the expression of our conversation partner and automatically extract emotional information from their face. At the same time, our own face provides emotional information to our conversation partner. Research suggests that both the decoding and production of facial expressions of emotion are defient or atypical in autism spectrum conditions, which can affect social functioning. While most research has focused on examining typicality in expressions, the atypical nature of expression in autism is underexplored. This PhD project will examine atypicality in facial emotional expression in autism spectrum conditions by use of facial electromyography as a sensitive measure of facial muscle activity. There is scope within this PhD project to formulate specific research questions that closely align with the candidate's interests and experience. For more information or enquiry, please contact Dr Tan Wingenbach (t.wingenbach[at]reading.ac.uk).

Funding Notes

1st/High 2.1 in a relevant discipline (Neuroscience or Psychology), ideally MSc Merit or Distinction