Social Well-being, Empathy, and Emerging Technologies Lab
Lab Mission
Our research team examines how digital technologies mediate, contextualize, and affect social connections and well-being. As we navigate the digital age, our lab is at the forefront of analyzing and decoding the intricate interplay between emerging technologies and the essence of human connection and well-being.
Lab Members
Han Li, Postdoctoral Fellow
Jinyuan Zhan, PhD student
Kaiyao Zhuang, PhD student
Yu-An Chen, Full-time research assistant
Lezi Xie, Part-time research assistant
Lab Alumni
Zicheng Zhu, PhD student 2021-2024 (now a postdoc @ NUS School of Computing)
Sheryl Ng, Master student 2022-2024 (now a PhD student @ NTU WKWSCI)
Hongyuan Gan, Master student 2023-2024 (now a PhD student @ Hong Kong Baptist University)
Xinyuan Luo, Master student 2021-2023 (now working full-time @ Sinopec)
Kai Xin Soh, Research Assistant 2023-2024 (now a PhD student @ Northwestern University)
Malorie Yoong Rui Yi, Undergraduate researcher 2023-2024 (now a PhD student @ Duke-NUS)
Wayne Sing Wei En, Undergraduate researcher 2023-2024
Feila Pu, Visiting from 2023-2024 now a PhD student @Renmin University of China)
Diyi Liu, Visiting student 2023 (now a PhD student @ Oxford Internet Institute)
Projects
Human-AI Communication and Interactions
This project explores the motivations, processes, and outcomes of engagement with AI chatbots, with a particular focus on self-disclosure, trust, and relationship development. Our studies will contribute to the theory-building of human-machine communication and inform the design of social chatbots that are empowering and beneficial to users. Through this exploration, we seek to establish guidelines and best practices to foster meaningful, beneficial, and harmonious relationships between humans and machines, shaping a future where technology truly complements the human experience.
Sample publication:
Li, H., & Zhang, R. (2024). Finding Love in Algorithms: Deciphering the Emotional Contexts of Close Encounters with AI Chatbots. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 29(5), zmae015. [link]
Li, H.*, Zhang, R.*, Lee, Y.C., Kraut, R., & Mohr, D. (2023). AI-based conversational agents for promoting mental health and well-being: A systematic review and meta-analysis. npj Digital Medicine. [link]
AI-Mediated Interpersonal Communication
This project dives deep into the realm of AI-mediated supportive communication, exploring how AI can be harnessed to enhance and facilitate empathetic exchanges. We investigate the ways in which AI tools can craft messages that resonate with human emotions, while also assessing the effectiveness and authenticity of such interactions. By analyzing the nuances of AI-generated content, our goal is to refine and optimize the blend of technology and human touch. This research strives to pave the way for a future where AI not only communicates but genuinely supports, enriching human connections in an increasingly digital age.
AI Ethics and Design Justice
Centered on the belief that technology should work for everyone, we scrutinize the underlying biases in AI systems and their potential societal impacts. Our goal is to illuminate areas where design principles may perpetuate inequality and injustice. Drawing from diverse perspectives and voices, we aim to develop actionable recommendations and guidelines to ensure AI technologies are designed with equity and inclusivity at their core. This project stands as a beacon for those who envision a future where AI not only augments human capability but also champions justice and fairness for all.
Sample publication:
Zhang, R., Li, H., Chen, A., Liu, Z., & Lee, Y.C. (2024). AI Privacy in Context: A Comparative Study of Public and Institutional Discourse on Conversational AI Privacy in the US and China. Social Media + Society. [link]
Luo, X., & Zhang, R. (2024). Decoding the gendered design and (dis) affordances of face-editing technologies in China. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 181, 103149. [link]
Digital Well-Being
This project delves into the intersection of technology and personal well-being, exploring how digital platforms and tools influence our mental, emotional, and physical wellness. We aim to understand the positive and negative implications of increasing digital interactions. Our findings will guide the development of recommendations and strategies to promote healthier digital habits, fostering a more balanced and mindful tech-integrated lifestyle. Embracing the future of digital wellness, our research will empower individuals to harness technology for holistic well-being.
Sample publication:
Zhu, Z., Zhang, R., & Qin, Y. (2022). Toxicity and prosocial behaviors in massively multiplayer online games: The role of mutual dependence, power, and passion. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 27(6), zmac017. [pdf]
Zhu, Z., Mitchell, A., & Zhang, R. (2022). Developing Intentional Relationships with Technologies: An Exploratory Study of Players’ Experiences with Built-in Interventions in Games. In Designing Interactive Systems Conference (pp. 745-758). [pdf]
