Virtual interactions trigger caregiving attributions: Using a simulation to examine perceived control

Low perceived control, or when a caregiver attributes high blame to a child and low blame to themselves, has been linked to heightened and abusive behavior with both children and animals. This study aimed to see if these caregiving schemas about low perceived control also apply to a virtual dog caregiving simulation. LPC participants chose reactive responses (such as yelling) more often than others when interacting with an ambiguously-behaved virtual dog, a trend similar to previous research. We also found that participants with balanced levels of attributed control chose more heightened responses when interacting with an aggressive virtual dog. Evidence suggests that caregiving schemas are applicable to simulations; therefore, they can be used as a safe and effective method to study perceived control, particularly in examining abusive behaviors and otherwise dangerous situations. The results in the aggressive condition suggested that balance of power should also be an important consideration. • Perceived control caregiving schemas also apply to virtual interactions. • Simulations can be used to research caregiving interactions safely and effectively. • Low perceived control led to more reactive caregiving with ambiguous dog. • Perceived balanced power led to reactive caregiving with aggressive dog.