Provoking sociability

In this study, we explore the potential usefulness of disturbing, uncomfortable systems, demonstrating that provocative technology can have a positive effect on social relationships. We designed and evaluated an agent-based system that collects user information by asking seemingly benign questions, and then uses it to spread false, strange gossip throughout an office space. We show that provocative interaction on-line can improve off-line sociability. Author Keywords Design noir, emotion, negative affect, CMC, sociability. ACM Classification Keywords H5.0. Information interfaces and presentation (e.g., HCI): General.

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2007
• Where: CHI
• Authors: Brooke E. Foucault, Helena M. Mentis, Phoebe Sengers, Devon Welles
• Keywords: ACM Classification Keywords, CHI 2007, Human Computer Interaction, Keywords Design Noir, Provocative Interaction On-line