> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://library.xrguild.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://library.xrguild.org/physiological-and-psychological-effects-of-xr/exploring-the-user-avatar-relationship-in-videogames-a-systematic-review-of-the-proteus-effect.md). # Exploring the user-avatar relationship in videogames: A systematic review of the Proteus effect The Proteus effect describes how avatar characteristics in virtual environments can influence users' behavior and attitudes both in-game and in real life. ## Overview **Authors:** Kim Szolin, Daria J. Kuss, Filip M. Nuyens, Mark D. Griffiths **Publication Date:** 2021 **Link:** **Keywords:** Proteus effect, avatar design, behavioral influence, gaming disorder, virtual identity, social interactions, psychological effects, VR applications, user experience, digital embodiment **Type:** Peer-Reviewed Journals/White Papers ## Summary The Proteus effect describes how avatar characteristics in virtual environments can influence users' behavior and attitudes both in-game and in real life. Research shows this effect can impact various aspects of user experience, including gaming disorder symptoms, physical activity levels, and social interactions, highlighting the importance of avatar design in video games and virtual reality applications. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://library.xrguild.org/physiological-and-psychological-effects-of-xr/exploring-the-user-avatar-relationship-in-videogames-a-systematic-review-of-the-proteus-effect.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.