In a study conducted in 2022, researchers investigated the link between symmetry and self-identification. In the primary task, 30 participants had to indicate whether a randomly generated, symmetrical or asymmetrical shape correctly matched the previously defined “YOU” or “STRANGER” label. The analytical approach involved comparing reaction times with a paired-sample one-tailed t-test, and ANOVAs for comparing between experimental conditions. Confounders like distance from the screen, background color were controled. Among other hypothesis, the primary hypothesis which posited that the shapes associated with the participants would be recognized more quickly when they were symmetrical, was supported by the results with a large (p. 10) effect size. This overview provides a concise synthesis of the most relevant results. For more details, please refer to the article page.
To virtually represent a user, use symmetrical shapes, and leave asymmetrical shapes to others, to reinforce positive affects.
Vicovaro, M., Dalmaso, M., & Bertamini, M. (2022). Towards the boundaries of self-prioritization: Associating the self with asymmetric shapes disrupts the self-prioritization effect. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, 48(9), 972–986. https://doi.org/10.1037/xhp0001036