Implications Of Child-Character–Centred Persuasive Systems: Abuse, Ethics, And Prospects For Design
Akinola Oluwaseun David
Industrial Design Department, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
Abstract
Child abuse through persuasive design, once perceived as a predominantly Western issue, has increasingly penetrated sub-Saharan Africa, facilitated by the spread of design knowledge and application. Despite its significant social, behavioral, and health consequences, the intersection of child protection, health, and design remains underexplored. This multidisciplinary study critically examines selected persuasive product designs, with a focus on emerging child-character-centered campaigns and systems. Using a combination of literature review, product analysis, and content analysis, the study identifies the strategic use of child-characters as key drivers in major persuasive campaigns. While these strategies may effectively achieve the objectives of designers and sponsors, they pose serious risks to children’s healthy development, exposing them to potentially harmful influences. The study emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight and calls for appropriate authorities to critically evaluate persuasive designs and systems to prevent abuse and safeguard child health and well-being