Hunter Priniski, PhD

Emerging technologies provide people with access to vast sources of information while enabling unprecedented levels of social connectivity. Yet the complex dynamics linking individual and group psychology make it difficult to predict how technology impacts people’s thinking and behavior. My experimental research on narratives revolves around two questions: how do emerging technologies affect how people learn, communicate, and shape complex narratives? How can findings inform digital tools and new media that help people shape their lives and communities? My experiments on human groups show how network connections shape which narrative details people emphasize and how information flows through groups. I’m also exploring how AI agents in these networks affect people’s understanding of events and perceptions of shared beliefs. These findings guide development of digital technologies and narrative-based media designed to inspire new forms of human creativity and social connection.