Intermodal perception

Lorraine E. Bahrick, Florida International University
George J. Hollich, College of Health and Human Sciences

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the history, theory, and research focused on the early development of intermodal perception. It focuses on the role of intersensory perception of audiovisual relations in the development of object and event perception and aspects of social development, including perception of speech, faces and voices. We also review research on visual-tactile, visual-motor perception, and their role in self-perception. The importance of early detection of amodal information (information redundant across the senses) for guiding the early development of intermodal perception and providing a meaningful foundation for social, cognitive, and language development, is emphasized.