Emotional Resonance and Interactive Experience
Emotional Resonance and Interactive Experience

A Framework for Enhancing User Engagement through Empathetic Design

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DOI:

10.31182/cubic.2025.8.84

Keywords:

emotional design, affective computing, empathetic interaction, multisensory user experience

Abstract

This study explores the integration of emotional resonance and interactive experience in design and proposes a systematic framework that combines affective computing, multisensory design and ethical considerations. Grounded in emotional design (Norman 2004) and affective computing (Picard 1997), this framework is validated through case studies in smart home systems, emotional support interfaces and interactive pet care. The findings indicate that emotion-aware design significantly improves user engagement (32% increase in smart plant care interactions) and fosters ethical reflection (41% decrease in support for cosmetic pet surgeries). Despite the potential of emotion-aware design, challenges remain in terms of privacy concerns, cultural adaptation and technological feasibility. This research contributes to empathetic design by offering a structured approach to emotion-driven user interactions, with implications for future developments in AI-driven emotional modulation and cross-cultural applications.

How to Cite

Chen, X. (2025). Emotional Resonance and Interactive Experience: A Framework for Enhancing User Engagement through Empathetic Design. Cubic Journal, 8(8), 131–140. https://doi.org/10.31182/cubic.2025.8.84

Published

2025-12-01

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 8 (2025): Searching for Innocence Through the Synergies of Interactions — Scripting · Sensing · Interacting

Section

Articles

License

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Author Biography

Xinyi Chen, Macau University of Science and Technology

Xinyi Chen is a designer and researcher whose work lies at the intersection of emotional design, human-computer interaction, and interactive media. Her recent projects explore empathy-driven interfaces, affective computing, and ethical technology design in contexts such as virtual care, smart environments, and speculative design. She holds a Master’s degree in Design and is currently engaged in interdisciplinary research involving AI, sensory feedback systems, and user engagement in digital experiences.

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