Effects of vision and haptics on categorizing common objects

Cogn Process. 2011 Feb;12(1):33-9. doi: 10.1007/s10339-010-0369-5. Epub 2010 Aug 19.

Abstract

Most research on object recognition and categorization centers on vision. However, these phenomena are likely influenced by the commonly used modality of touch. The present study tested this notion by having participants explore three-dimensional objects using vision and haptics in naming and sorting tasks. Results showed greater difficulty naming (recognizing) and sorting (categorizing) objects haptically. For both conditions, error increased from the concrete attribute of size to the more abstract quality of predation, providing behavioral evidence for shared object representation in vision and haptics.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Concept Formation / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Recognition, Psychology / physiology*
  • Sex Factors
  • Touch Perception / physiology*
  • Visual Perception / physiology*
  • Young Adult