When the future self hurts the present self: the psychological effects of augmented reality aging filters on state body image

Augmented Reality (AR) has revolutionised appearance-based filters that enable users to modify their appearance in real time on social media platforms. A fair amount of research has focused on how AR-based appearance filters impact users’ body image, particularly those that enhance appearance through ‘beautifying’ filters. However, the effects of AR filters that change users’ appearance so that it is further from the appearance ideal remain largely unexplored. In particular, despite the growing popularity of AR-based aging filters, which allow users to experience a future, aged version of themselves, it remains unclear whether and how these filters influence body image. To fill this research gap, this study investigated the underlying mechanisms through which AR aging filters can influence state body image. A single-factor design experiment with two conditions (AR aging filters: with [n = 66] vs. without [n = 82]) was employed. Results showed that AR aging filters led to greater temporal presence (i.e. being there in the mediated time point) in the future. The increase in temporal presence, in turn, decreased temporal distance toward aging. Subsequently, decreased temporal distance toward aging enhanced emotional responses, including fear and sadness, which further negatively impacted state body image. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.