Grasp and remember: the impact of human and robotic actions on object preference and memory

Goal contagion, the tendency to adopt others' goals, significantly impacts cognitive processes, which gains particular importance in the emerging field of human-robot interactions. The present study explored how observing human versus robotic actions affects preference and memory. Series of objects undergoing either human or robotic grasping actions together with static (no action) objects were presented, while participants indicated their preference for each object. After a short delay, their memory for grasped, static and new (unstudied) stimuli was tested. Human actions enhanced preference and subsequent recollection of objects, more than robotic actions. In the context of human action, static objects were also perceived as more familiar at recognition. The goal contagion's influence on memory was found to be independent from its impact on preference. These findings highlight the critical role of human interaction in eliciting the impact of goal contagion on cognitive evaluations, memory engagement and the creation of detailed associative memories.