Affective computing: problems, reactions and intentions

Although we share the optimistic vision of affective computing presented in Interacting with Computers 14(2), we question the extent to which affective sensing can support the kinds of applications proposed in the literature. These applications depend upon the detection of affective reactions to HCI situations and events, but it has yet to be shown that such reactions can reliably be detected in subtle and natural situations. We also point out that, in human–human interaction, intentional commmunicative affect is both easier to recognise and more important than reactive affect. We suggest exploration of this idea may lead to more fruitful applications of affective computing.