Abstract
Using various compositions with alterations in figures' gaze directions and additions of an object, the interpretation of gaze directions and the impression of a figure were examined. The results obtained by factor analysis, cluster analysis, multi-dimensional scaling and questionnaires showed that 1) observers' impression of a figure was affected not only by figures' gaze directions but also by the presence or absence of an object viewed by figures, 2) compositions of joint attention gave a positive impression even if in an averted composition (parallel joint attention), 3) the pictures used here were viewed from the point of view of the attachment of mothers and the independence of children, and 4) a woman in this picture was evaluated from the aspect of a motherhood or pre-motherhood impression. These results are discussed in terms of the cognitive process of gaze directions as well as the developmental process of the mother–child relationship.
