Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 5-11-2024
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Integrated Marketing Communication
First Advisor
Dennis Irwin
Second Advisor
Tyler Barnes
Third Advisor
Timothy Holston
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
This thesis examines the pervasive and detrimental effects of manipulative user interface and user experience design (UI/UX) practices on individuals and society. Focusing on three critical areas – accessibility, dark patterns, and polarization – the study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining findings from a comprehensive literature review, an analysis of specific design patterns and methods, and a survey of user experiences.
The literature review covers topics such as the importance of accessibility in design education, the prevalence of dark patterns in mobile and desktop sites, the role of personalization algorithms in shaping user experiences, and the formation of echo chambers on social media platforms. The survey explores users’ awareness of manipulative design practices and their perceptions of the ethical implications of such designs.
The findings reveal that manipulative UI/UX design practices can negatively impact user behavior, well-being, and access to opportunities. Survey results indicate that a significant portion of users recognize the influence of design elements on their trust, engagement, and purchasing decisions. Accessibility barriers can exclude vulnerable populations from critical online resources. Dark patterns, which describe deceptive design tactics that trick or manipulate users into taking actions that may not be in their best interest, can negatively impact user trust. Polarizing design, driven by recommendation algorithms and filter bubbles, contributes to political fragmentation, the spread of misinformation, and the crumbling of a commonly accepted reality.
To address these issues, the thesis proposes recommendations that prioritize inclusive design practices, establish ethical guidelines, promote digital literacy, and encourage transparency within the tech industry. Most notably, digital media literacy and design education. These recommendations aim to create a more inclusive, transparent, and user-centered digital world that supports well-being, autonomy, and social cohesion.
In conclusion, this thesis advocates for a significant shift in design priorities towards a more ethical and responsible approach to UI/UX design, acknowledging and actively working to reduce the harms caused by manipulative design practices. This shift should be supported by an emphasis on digital literacy and education initiatives targeting both designers and users, which will contribute to the development of a more inclusive, transparent, and user-centric digital landscape.
Recommended Citation
Brown, Ryan Edward, "Manipulative, Dark, and Unethical Design Practices in UI & UX Design" (2024). Honors Theses. 3163.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3163
Creative Commons License
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