No. #132

Reactance
- Pushback Against Perceived Restrictions

Reactance is a psychological reaction that occurs in response to perceived restrictions on personal freedoms and choices, leading to resistance against the restrictions and an increased drive to regain freedom. This bias can affect user responses to overly restrictive app features, content moderation policies, or marketing messages.

Read more on Wikipedia

Product example

Users might react negatively to an app that restricts access to certain features, prompting them to seek alternatives or workarounds.

Empathy tips

1

Offer Choices

Provide users with choices wherever possible to reduce feelings of restriction.

2

Explain Rationales

Clearly explain the rationale behind any restrictions or rules.

3

Empower User Decision-Making

Empower users by involving them in decision-making processes when feasible.

4

Adjust Based on Feedback

Adjust policies and features based on user feedback regarding reactance.

Need an empathic partner?

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Anna Lundqvist
UX & AI ethics expert driving better products and smarter teams.
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Eddy Salzmann
Design lead crafting seamless products and mentoring design teams.
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Ola Möller
Facilitator helping organisations see the big picture and take action.