Department of Psychology

The „Applied Social Psychology and Gender Research“ Lab, supervised by Prof. Dr. Friederike Eyssel, researches social psychological aspects of human-machine-interaction. Moreover, the work group investigates determinants and consequences of gender stereotypes, sexism, sexual objectification, and sexual harassment.

Focusing on psychological aspects of human-machine interaction, we conduct empirical studies on evaluation, acceptance, and usability of robots and technical systems in everyday life (e.g., during robot development in the VIVA-project, in smart environments homes, in education). In this context, we investigate attitudes towards robots and intelligent systems, the perceived quality of human-machine interaction, and user behavior during the interaction. Further, we identify key factors of user acceptance of technology and their willingness to use novel technologies. In addition, we apply well-esablished concepts from social psychological research (e.g., self-disclosure, ambivalent attitudes) to human-robot interaction. By doing so, we contribute to a better understanding of psychological mechanisms that promote a successful human-technology interaction.

Another research interest aims at the determinants of sexual aggression towards women. We are interested in the interplay of perpetrator- as well as victim-spcific variables (e.g., group memberships, disabilities, social exclusion) and the blaming of victims of sexual aggression.

Overview of research topics

• Assessment and change of attitudes towards technical systems
• Ethical aspects of developing novel technologies
• Social categorization processes in human-robot interaction
• Evaluation of social robots
• Determinants and consequences of self-discolure in human-robot interaction
• Ambivalence in attitudes towards robots
• VR technologies to reduce stigma towards people with psychological disorders
• Determinants of anthropomorphism and dehumanization
• Sexism
• Sexual objectification
• Sexual aggression and victim blaming