Beyond the Algorithm A Review of User Experiences and Attitudes Toward Emotional Wellbeing Technologies

Richardus Eko  Indrajit; Iswara Gandhi; Untung Rahardja; Meriyana Sunengsih; Kgomotso Moyo

Authors

Richardus Eko Indrajit Harvard University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3190-9028
Iswara Gandhi Universitas Trisakti https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1762-8592
Untung Rahardja Universiti Teknologi Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2166-2412
Meriyana Sunengsih UR Mart https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6480-1571
Kgomotso Moyo Mfinitee Incorporation https://orcid.org/0009-0005-5779-562X

Keywords:

Emotional Wellbeing, Positive Computing, Affective Computing, Mental Health Technology, Data Processing

Abstract

The escalating prevalence of stress, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation in an increasingly digitized society underscores the critical need for technological interventions that support psychological well-being. While the field of affective and positive computing has made significant strides in algorithmic development and technical efficacy, a holistic understanding of user perception and lived experience remains fragmented within the existing body of literature. This paper addresses this gap by presenting a narrative synthesis of ten seminal studies that explore the human centric dimensions of engaging with emotional well-being technologies. Our review reveals that user perceptions are intricately shaped by three recurring themes including the perceived credibility of a system’s emotion-recognition capabilities, concerns surrounding data privacy and control, and the fundamental distinction between viewing technology as a tool for personal empowerment versus a replacement for human connection. These themes collectively highlight a critical divergence between the technical promise and the psychological realities of affective technology. In conclusion, this synthesis provides a nuanced understanding of user attitudes that transcends purely algorithmic metrics. It offers valuable theoretical contributions to the field of human-computer interaction and provides practical implications for designing more empathetic, transparent, and ethically-aligned digital mental health tools that genuinely foster resilience and positive human experience.

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