When Productivity is an Illusion: The Effect of Goal- versus Leisure-Oriented User-Generated-Content on Viewers
(A2026-133702)

AUTHORS

Seong Joo Lee, University of Utah; Alisa Wu, University of Utah

ABSTRACT

This research examines how different types of user-generated content affects viewers’ psychological responses. We distinguish between goal-oriented content, which portrays creators progressing toward a specific task, and leisure-oriented content, which is designed primarily for enjoyment and relaxation. Across two experiments, participants who viewed goal-oriented content consistently reported higher negative time perception and stronger vicarious accomplishment compared to those who viewed leisure-oriented content. These findings reveal a robust psychological pattern: goal-oriented content can create an illusion of progress that makes viewers feel productive while simultaneously heightening awareness of time loss. This suggests that seemingly “productive” content may unintentionally encourage passive consumption and procrastination rather than genuine action.