The effect of face masks and sunglasses on identity and expression recognition with super-recognizers and typical observers

Face masks present a new challenge to face identification (here matching) and emotion recognition in Western cultures. Here, we the results of three experiments that test effect masks, also sunglasses (an occlusion individuals tend have more experienced with) on (i) familiar matching, (ii) unfamiliar matching (iii) categorization. Occlusion reduced accuracy all tasks, with most errors mask condition; however, there was little difference performance for faces compared sunglasses. Super-recognizers, people who are highly skilled at unconcealed faces, were impaired by occlusion, but group level, performed higher than controls tasks. Results inform psychology theory implications everyday interactions, security policing mask-wearing society.