Yes, research suggests that babies as young as two months old show a preference for faces considered attractive by adults. This isn't necessarily a conscious understanding of "attractiveness" in the adult sense, but rather a preference driven by inherent biases.
Infant Preferences: An Innate Bias?
Studies consistently demonstrate that infants spend more time looking at faces deemed attractive by adults compared to less attractive faces (Langlois et al., 1987; Samuels & Ewy, 1985). This preference isn't learned; it's present in very young infants, indicating an innate or biologically based component. Multiple studies across different cultures confirm this finding (https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn6355-babies-prefer-to-gaze-upon-beautiful-faces/, https://www.quora.com/Is-it-true-babies-prefer-attractive-faces). This suggests a potential link between attractiveness and perceived health or genetic fitness. Even when looking at non-human faces, this preference is observed (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2566458/).
What Drives This Preference?
While babies may not consciously judge attractiveness, their visual system is drawn to certain facial features frequently associated with attractiveness in adults. This might involve aspects like symmetry, average features, and clear skin. It's important to note that this is not a judgment of beauty, but a response to stimuli that trigger certain neural pathways associated with survival and positive interaction (https://www.babylab.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2016/09/Slater-et-al-2000.pdf).
The "Halo Effect" and Infant Perception
The concept of the "halo effect" – where one positive attribute influences perceptions of other traits – could also play a role. A baby might experience a positive emotional response to a smiling, attractive face, reinforcing the association between the face and positive feelings (https://www.reddit.com/r/NoStupidQuestions/comments/1ajw75v/do-babiestoddlerschildren_know_when_someone_is/).
Conclusion
Infants' preference for attractive faces is likely an innate response driven by biological factors, not a conscious understanding of beauty standards. This preference might be linked to associating specific facial features with health and survival.
