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We are inspired: How augmented reality empowers cultural communication through self-authenticity and subjective well-being

Author

Listed:
  • Chen, Shuang
  • Li, Bin
  • Zhou, Qi

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) serves as a powerful and persuasive medium for information communication. However, little research exists on if, how, and when AR impacts audiences' psychological responses when transmitting cultural communication. Therefore, this study proposes an inspiration–response model to explore the causal mechanism underlying audiences' inspiration to integrate AR in cultural communication through a three-stage mixed-methods design. Initial experimental results showed that AR (vs. non-AR) can induce increased inspiration for cultural communication. The critical AR affordances were then refined through interviews. Finally, a two-wave longitudinal survey (N = 500) was conducted, and the results indicated AR affordances enhance inspiration, which further induces groundedness and enhances self-authenticity and subjective well-being. The enhanced inspiration was also found to depend on cultural trendiness. The findings of this study provide novel insights into the effectiveness of using AR for cultural communication.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen, Shuang & Li, Bin & Zhou, Qi, 2025. "We are inspired: How augmented reality empowers cultural communication through self-authenticity and subjective well-being," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 221(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:221:y:2025:i:c:s0040162525003841
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2025.124353
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