A recent study found that allowing users to control autoplay features can help them become more aware of the content they are consuming online and avoid going down a rabbit hole into extreme content. This research has implications for designing online platforms responsibly and assisting users in identifying extreme content.
According to the study, the online world can lead users to increasingly extreme content without them realizing it. Platforms like YouTube automatically play the next video to maintain audience interest, often transitioning from mainstream to extreme content. This autoplay feature has been associated with users getting stuck in a rabbit hole of extreme content.
The study, conducted by Penn State researchers, suggests that giving users control over autoplay can help them recognize when they are delving into extreme content. The findings have important implications for designing online content platforms and algorithms in a responsible manner and aiding users in identifying extreme content.
Researchers created an experimental video platform called VIDNATION to explore the impact of autoplay and users’ prior media consumption on their perception of extreme content. The platform had 12 versions, each offering different levels of autoplay control, from toggle autoplay on or off to manual control of video playback.
394 participants were recruited and assigned to different versions of VIDNATION. After watching videos of varying extremity levels, participants were asked to complete questionnaires to assess their perception of control over the content and whether they felt they had gone down a rabbit hole.
The study revealed that providing users with control over autoplay features can influence their perception of the content they consume. By allowing users to decide whether to continue watching content that may lead to extremes, platforms can empower users to make informed choices about their viewing experience.
The concept of “interpassivity,” where technology makes decisions on behalf of users, plays a crucial role in users’ sense of control. Autoplay, when combined with user engagement, can impact users’ perception of falling into a rabbit hole.
Findings also showed that users who toggled autoplay on felt more aware of their media experience and were more likely to recognize a rabbit hole. However, the feeling of control made them less conscious of content that deviated from their expectations, reducing their perception of a rabbit hole.
The study highlighted the importance of promoting mindful use of online platforms and designing interfaces that empower users to be critical consumers of content. By enabling users to recognize extreme content and adjust their views accordingly, platforms can help users navigate online spaces responsibly.
The study was conducted by researchers from Penn State, including authors Cheng “Chris” Chen and S. Shyam Sundar, along with other collaborators in the field of media and user experience research.
