University of Twente Student Theses
Exploring story-based Avatar Customization in Virtual Environments: The Influence of Sexist Beliefs and Gender
Falkenberg, Luca Sophie (2024) Exploring story-based Avatar Customization in Virtual Environments: The Influence of Sexist Beliefs and Gender.
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| Abstract: | The present study investigated how the level of sexist beliefs and gender identity can influence the creation of story-based avatars in virtual environments. In this mixed-method study, 33 participants designed two avatars using the avatar creation tool Sims4, based on two different narratives: one sexist narrative (Emily) and one neutral narrative (Sophie). After the completion of the avatar creation the level of sexist beliefs was measured using the Ambivalent sexism Inventory (ASI). The quantitative analysis of this study showed that male and female participants' ASI ratings did not differ significantly. Gender did not affect the ASI scores and the level of sexist beliefs (ASI scores) did not show a significant effect on the extent to how sexist the avatars were created. Only talking about the influence gender itself has on avatar creation, no significant difference neither could be found. Nevertheless, qualitative analysis revealed clear distinctions between the avatar creation in Emily and Sophie's representations. Emily, on the one hand, was frequently portrayed as embracing more sexist stereotypes with her bright cosmetics, styled hair, and revealing clothes. Sophie, on the other hand, had a more effortless and understated image, dressed comfortably but sporty and traits got picked which emphasised intelligence and kindness. The results demonstrate that there is a significant effect of narratives on avatar creation, therefore the widespread impact of sexist ideas and narratives on the creation of virtual avatars point to the necessity of interventions to support more inclusive and well-rounded avatar designs. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology BSc (56604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/102618 |
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