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The Frozen Effect: Objects in motion are more aesthetically appealing than objects frozen in time
Malerie G McDowell1, Jason Haberman2
1Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Tennessee, United States of America.
Plos One
|May 17, 2019
Summary
Moving videos are more appealing than static images for faces, bodies, and objects. This generalized Frozen Effect (FE) is stronger when movement is more predictable, enhancing aesthetic appeal.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Perception
- Aesthetics
Background:
- The Frozen Face Effect (FFE) suggests videos of faces are preferred over static images.
- This preference may stem from viewing faces in a more ecological context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if the FFE extends to other stimulus categories (bodies, objects).
- To investigate if motion confers a generalized aesthetic benefit, termed the Frozen Effect (FE).
Main Methods:
- Participants rated videos of bodies and objects in motion.
- Ratings were compared to those of individual static frames from each video.
Main Results:
- Videos were rated as significantly more flattering than static images across all stimulus domains (faces, bodies, objects).
- The magnitude of the Frozen Effect increased with the predictability of the stimulus movement.
Conclusions:
- The Frozen Effect generalizes beyond facial perception to bodies and objects.
- Motion enhances the aesthetic appeal of stimuli, with predictable motion yielding a stronger preference.
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