Humanising Robots: How Imagery and Narratives Shape Attitudes and Emotional Engagement in Human-Robot Interaction

Neil Anthony Daruwala^*

• University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom

This study examines how positive visual and textual depictions of humanlike robots influence attitudes, emotional engagement, and perceived closeness. A between-subjects experimental design was employed, with 228 participants (aged 18-65) randomly assigned to either an experimental or control group. The experimental group was exposed to imagery, videos of robots performing humanlike gestures, and a narrative vignette simulating human-robot interactions. In contrast, the control group completed assessments without these materials.The findings revealed a significant reduction in negative attitudes toward robots among the experimental group from pre-to post-intervention (p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.37). Participants also reported decreased negative emotional responses and increased emotional closeness to robots (p < 0.001). Younger participants exhibited more favourable baseline attitudes toward robots, whereas gender differences were minimal.These results underscore the potential of positive imagery and videos of robot-human interactions in improving public perceptions of robots. Depictions highlighting relatable and empathetic behaviours can be particularly effective in marketing and advertising campaigns for service-oriented industries. For instance, scenarios showcasing robots performing collaborative tasks or displaying humanlike gestures can capture customer attention, enhance loyalty, and address hesitations among sceptical stakeholders.By synthesising empathy theory with multimodal intervention design, this study presents a novel, evidence-based approach to shaping public perceptions of service robots. It provides valuable insights into the psychological mechanisms underpinning human-robot interaction and attitude change. It illustrates how storytelling and visual cues can reshape perceptions, paving the way for greater acceptance of robotic technologies. Future studies should investigate cultural differences and explore how advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics can refine these strategies for diverse audiences and applications.