Using avatars in gamification can change real-life perceptions, so it's important to be mindful of their impact.

• Behavior influence: Research studies found that when users customize avatars to look like themselves, they create a personal connection and influence behavior. Watching an avatar that looks like them perform an activity can motivate users to do the same in real life. For instance, if an avatar is shown to exercise and become fitter, users might be more inclined to work out more regularly.
• Future decisions: Avatars can also impact future decisions. For example, a research study found that college students who saw aged versions of their avatars were more likely to invest in retirement.
• Traits transfer: Traits and behavior changes in the virtual world can transfer to real life. In a research study, users with taller avatars acted more confidently in real-life negotiations than those with shorter avatars.^[1]

Be aware of these effects when designing gamified systems with avatars to positively influence real-world behavior.