Abstract

The review analyses studies into the influence of social factors on the kinematic profiles (velocity, amplitude, trajectory, grip aperture and other characteristics) of human actions. Laboratory models of human joint sensorimotor activity in different social contexts are described, exemplified by reach kinematics, complementary actions, sensorimotor communication, imitation tasks and motor interference tasks. Research into the influence of the goals of interaction (cooperation, competition, communication) and the presence of an observer on the kinematic profiles of human movements is analysed. Further, the paper demonstrates the role of social factors in the performance of complementary actions and describes the effect of the mutual influence of the physical requirements of the task and social context on the kinematic profile of movements. Results are presented showing that co-actors modulate their actions to eliminate ambiguity of their motor intentions for the other person (sensorimotor communication). Contextual factors influencing the degree of motor interference and imitative behaviour are described, such as: the type of stimuli observed, co-agent’s status, group membership, and neurotypicality of the subjects. The possibility of reducing the effect of visuomotor interference by presenting incongruent actions as interdependent components of an overall activity plan is shown. In addition, neurophysiological mechanisms of interpersonal coordination are described. It is concluded that findings on human movement patterns in different social contexts can be used to increase teamwork efficiency in various professional fields, rehabilitate people with movement disorders, optimize working conditions, and improve human interactions with robotic systems.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call