Feeling close to a Crab-Thing in virtual reality: Does avatar appearance always matter in forming meaningful connections? A case study

Recent experimental research revealed that people can form meaningful relationships interacting with strangers in virtual reality (VR), resulting affiliative outcomes (e.g., feelings of closeness) at the same levels as those attained via interactions other sensory-rich communication modalities. The present preregistered experiment examined whether avatar type and matching VR influence closeness (and affiliated constructs) generated among previously unacquainted using a validated structured discussion procedure. Based on previous theory research, we hypothesized would not differ 1) regardless avatars appeared to be human or not, 2) there was (mis)match between interactants. Two hundred four undergraduate students were randomly assigned interact pairs one three stylized conditions: both appearance, non-human appearance (Crab-Things, created for this study), Crab-Thing. Results consistent hypotheses, suggesting related experienced types used current study. Exploratory analyses individual difference variables (personality attachment) possible moderators effects yielded non-significant findings, supporting generalizability findings across key intra- interpersonal dispositions.