A Multilayered Model of Product Emotions

TLDR: In this article, the authors introduce a theoretical basis for the process that underlies emotional responses to consumer products and discuss five distinct classes of product-evoked emotions, each of which are the outcome of a unique pattern of eliciting conditions.

Abstract: This paper introduces a theoretical basis for the process that underlies emotional responses to consumer products Five distinct classes of product-evoked emotions are discussed, each of which are the outcome of a unique pattern of eliciting conditions The framework for these patterns was drawn from a model that reveals the cognitive basis of product emotions The main proposition of this model is that emotional reactions result from an appraisal process in which the individual appraises a product as (potentially) harming, or favouring one or several of their concerns In this perspective the concern and the appraisal are considered key parameters that determine if a product evokes an emotion and if so what emotion is evoked Because each of the five classes of product emotions (ie instrumental, aesthetic, social, surprise, and interest emotions) is discussed in terms of these key parameters, it can be used to explain the complex and often personal nature of product emotions, and support designers in t