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Testing the Proteus Effect in Autistic and Neurotypical Participants
Chris Fullwood1, Liam Cross2, Gray Atherton2
1School of Psychology, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking
|December 24, 2024
Summary
Playing as an attractive avatar in The Sims increased self-worth and engagement for autistic and neurotypical individuals. This study demonstrates the Proteus effect in autistic people, impacting their in-game behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- The Proteus effect describes how avatar appearance influences user behavior.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) involves unique social and behavioral characteristics.
- Video games offer immersive environments for studying psychological phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the Proteus effect in autistic and neurotypical individuals.
- To explore how avatar attractiveness influences in-game behaviors.
- To understand the implications for autistic individuals in virtual environments.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-two participants (16 autistic, 16 neurotypical) played The Sims.
- Participants were assigned either an attractive or unattractive avatar.
- Behavioral data (economic game, in-game activities) were collected post-play.
Main Results:
- Attractive avatars led to negotiating for larger financial shares.
- Attractive avatars increased in-game exercise and social interactions.
- Autistic individuals showed potential differences in peer influence resistance.
Conclusions:
- The Proteus effect is demonstrable in autistic individuals.
- Avatar embodiment can influence behavior in autistic gamers.
- Findings suggest potential applications for therapeutic interventions in gaming.
