TechnoSapiens: Perceptions and Stereotyping of Human Augmentation Technologies

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Frank Asbrock; Professor Dr. Guido Brunnett; Professor Dr. Bertolt Meyer
• Subject Area: Social Psychology, Industrial and Organisational Psychology ; Image and Language Processing, Computer Graphics and Visualisation, Human Computer Interaction, Ubiquitous and Wearable Computing
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 558594229

The proposed research project examines how merging the human body with technology—specifically through human augmentation technologies (HAT) like bionic prostheses — affects coordination, interaction, and social perception between users and non-users of such technologies. In our proposed research, we distinguish between technologies that aim to restore or replicate physical functions and those that exceed natural abilities. In our previous research, we developed a single-user augmented reality (AR) system to explore the self-perception of individuals using restorative motor human augmentation technologies (e.g., bionic prostheses). We also conducted psychological studies on other-perceptions of HAT users. However, these were based on participants’ perceptions of photos and did not feature real interactions, which is why their contribution is limited. With the proposed research, we thus aim to extend our research to interaction scenarios between augmented and non-augmented persons. This will enable a broader understanding of how the merging of humans with technology is perceived, both from the perspective of the user and from that of others, while considering the different uses of the technology (restoration vs. enhancement). Technically, the project requires the development of a multi-user AR environment where two people, one of whom is equipped with a bionic prosthesis, can interact. In this environment, we will conduct studies on how non-users perceive HAT-users and the effects of these perceptions on social interaction. We also investigate users’ and non-users’ gender as a potential moderating variable, because we hypothesize a higher stereotypical fit between the male gender role stereotype and the use of bionic technologies. Additionally, we will explore the longitudinal consequences of repeated interactions on interpersonal perception and behavior. In addition to psychological insights into the proliferation of human augmentation technologies, the project will also make important contributions to computer science, in particular through the development of an interactive, multi-user AR system for body augmentation.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants