Facial similarity and player-avatar identification

Abstract

Avatars are crucial aspects of VR environments as they mediate the presence of people in virtual environments. However, most studies on Player Avatar Identification (PAI) are done in video games, and the numerous studies have shown the multidimensionality of PAI measurement. Limited studies have explored avatar self-identification in-depth in VR, let alone isolating physical similarity and face imaging, and in social context. The present study is a pilot test aimed at determining whether a VR environment can be effective in inducing identification. Our manipulation check varies level of player-avatar facial similarity and aims to examine how participants differentially identify with an avatar that closely resembles their facial features versus one that does not.