Using consumer story scripting software to evoke emotions and empathy : A pilot within-group experiment

Abstract: New technology provides the possibility of delivering exposure therapy for socially anxious individuals through virtual environments. This study investigated whether emotional responses and empathy can be experienced for virtual characters (avatars) and whether the evaluations differ depending on level of social anxiety. Six scenes depicting avatars interacting were created through the consumer story scripting software Plotagon and then replicated with real humans. 102 participants viewed the scenes and appraised their emotional response and level of empathy. Results revealed the avatars varied in ability to elicit positive emotions, yet were equally successful in the negative conditions. An association was found between high social anxiety and a more negative emotional response of the scenes with humans but not with avatars. In conclusion it was found possible to feel emotions and empathy for virtual characters in a manner somewhat similarly to that for humans.