Humans can “catch” fear from machines, according to new research, revealing that rapid mechanical breathing can transmit anxiety through touch alone.
A team of psychologists from the University of Amsterdam and the University of British Columbia found that clinging to a fearful object amplifies physiological stress rather than providing comfort.
The researchers designed a furry robot with a hidden motorised ribcage to mimic human respiration. More than 100 student volunteers hugged the device as they watched a scary movie clip.
Simulated hyperventilation
Participants holding the robot during simulated hyperventilation showed the most substantial increases in heart rate compared to those holding calm or static robots.
“If the person you’re holding is scared, their body might give you signals that increase your own fear,” said lead researcher Dr Zachary Witkower of the University of Amsterdam. “Our work shows that one of those signals is breathing.”
The study, published in Emotion, suggests that haptic feedback could manipulate user emotions in video games or therapeutic contexts.
“People often cling to others when they’re scared, but if the other person is also afraid and hyperventilating, that touch can backfire by amplifying your own physiological response,” said Witkower.
Future work will explore whether similar effects occur in children or people with anxiety disorders.
