# Who Do You Think You Are? What Does Your Avatar Say About You?

## Overview

**Authors:** Thomas Deane

**Publication Date:** 2022

**Link:** <https://neurosciencenews.com/avatar-psychology-21464/>

**Keywords:** Avatars, self-expression, virtual spaces, social dynamics, conformity, escapism, identity, social group belonging, intersectionality, digital identities

**Type:** Blogs

## Summary

The article discusses how avatars, which represent users in virtual spaces, are a form of self-expression and may reflect social dynamics such as conformity and escapism. Researchers from Trinity College Dublin propose that avatars impact how individuals interact with others online, shaped by factors like identity and social group belonging. The study highlights the intersectionality of avatars, showing that users' experiences and biases can be influenced by their avatar's representation of gender, ethnicity, and other characteristics. These findings are particularly relevant in the context of virtual reality and the growing importance of digital identities.