Let's talk: anthropomorphization as means to cope with stress of interacting with technical devices

This study is concerned with the anthropomorphization of technical devices and the resulting influence on human-machine interaction; a special focus is on the verbal interaction between human and machine. Questions included: why do people regard technical devices as humans, when do they do so and how do they perceive their own dialogue and other persons' dialogues with technical devices? Correlation coefficients were calculated between the amount of displayed anthropomorphism and subjects' personality structure, fear of technical devices and self-rated technical competency. A subsequent regression analysis revealed that extraversion and gender of the respondents significantly predicted the amount of interaction with technical devices. Regression analysis showed that neuroticism and agreeableness significantly predicted self-rated technical competency. Technical devices that were seen as helpers or friends were generally treated less unfriendly than devices perceived as merely tools. The findings are discussed in the context of emotion and stress at work and the usability of technical devices.