Developing and Anthropomorphic Tendencies Scale

Abstract

A 208-item scale was developed to measure self-reported anthropomorphic tendencies during interactions with various non-human entities. The potential targets of anthropomorphism included technology-laden machines such as computers, other objects such as backpacks, living things such as houseplants, and abstract entities such as a god or higher power. Scale items assessed the degree to which participants agreed with statements regarding the perceived attributes of the entities, speech directed toward the entities and the treatment of the entities. A factor analysis suggested that the scale measures four independent types of anthropomorphism: “extreme” anthropomorphic tendencies, anthropomorphism of a god or higher power, anthropomorphism of pets, and “negative” anthropomorphism. Further analyses indicated that anthropomorphic tendencies were self-reported when pertaining to pets and a god or higher power. However, participants tended not to self-report inappropriate “negativeâ” anthropomorphism toward computers, cars, microwaves, etc. These disparate findings appear to be due to social desirability of anthropomorphism.