Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigates sex differences in numerosity perception and visuospatial abilities in adults using eye-tracking methodology. We report the results of a controlled dual-task experiment that assessed the participants' visuospatial and numerosity estimation abilities. We did not observe sex differences in reaction times and accuracy. However, we found that females consistently underestimated numerosity. This underestimation correlated with higher perceptual load in females, as evidenced by shorter fixation durations and increased fixation rates. These findings suggest that perceptual load, rather than visual or spatial abilities, significantly influences numerosity estimation. Our study contributes novel insights into sex differences in both numerosity estimation and visuospatial abilities. These results provide a foundation for future research on numerosity perception across various populations and contexts, with implications for educational strategies and cognitive training programs.
Source: Journal of Eye Movement Research
DOI: 10.3390/jemr18020009
Authors: Julia Bend, Anssi Öörni
Institution: Åbo Akademi University
Language: English
Subfield: Statistics and Probability
Field: Mathematics
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W4409153071