The Remote Self-Confrontation Interview Method: Gaining Insights into Users’ Perceptions of Digital Media Content from a Distance

Kristin Schmid, Ursula ; Kümpel, Anna Sophie und Rieger, Diana (2025): The Remote Self-Confrontation Interview Method: Gaining Insights into Users’ Perceptions of Digital Media Content from a Distance. In: American Behavioral Scientist, Vol. 69, No. 10: pp. 1221-1237

Abstract

For researchers interested in studying users’ perceptions and immediate reactions to digital media content—even from a distance—this article introduces the remote self-confrontation interview method. This adapted version of the self-confrontation interview method uses videoconferencing software and combines four interrelated steps: First, participants are observed scrolling through/using a stimulus, which allows the assessment of attention, emotional reactions, and the intensity of participants’ engagement. Second, self-confrontation interviews are conducted, discussing and re-evaluating participants’ observed behavior. Third, further research aims are addressed in semi-structured interviews, and fourth, in problem-focused tasks. Weighting up advantages and challenges for participants and researchers, we discuss the method as an effective and broadly applicable approach to examine digital media users’ perceptions and evaluations.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Social Sciences > Department of Communications and Media (IfKW)
• Subjects: 300 Social sciences > 380 Commerce, communications and transportation
• ISSN: 0002-7642
• Annotation: First published online October 14, 2023
• Language: English