VOLUME LXXVIII | JUN 2023

Infant gaze reveals insights on cognitive development

In a fascinating study, researchers explore the connection between infant gaze and abstract cognitive functions. They argue that while adults rely on developed cortical circuits for such functions, the developing cortex of young infants may not be mature enough. Instead, the study suggests that subcortical regions are responsible for driving observed gaze behavior in infants. This insight opens up new avenues for understanding the cognitive development of young children. By studying their gaze patterns, scientists can gain valuable insights into the underlying neural processes that contribute to cognitive functions. This research challenges previous claims about abstract cognitive functions in young infants and calls for a reevaluation of our understanding of early cognitive development. For more details about the study, check out the full article!

Aiyana Tremblay

Aiyana is an Indigenous educator from Alberta, with a background in environmental science and community wellness programs. She volunteers as an author to explore how traditional knowledge intersects with modern neuroscience to unlock human resilience and potential.

Based on studies of infant gaze, developmental psychologists have ascribed abstract cognitive functions to young infants. In their thought-provoking article, Blumberg and Adolph (B+A) [1] consider the implications of developmental neurobiology for these claims. Abstract cognitive functions in adults depend on cortical circuits; however, B+A hypothesize that the developing cortex is too immature to drive gaze in the youngest infants. If this is true, then subcortical regions must be driving all observed gaze behavior in young infants.
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