This study investigates the use of generative AI with the Rorschach Inkblot Test to support emotional exploration and self-expression. A controlled experiment compared static images with AI-generated dynamic visuals, and expert interviews provided professional insights. Results indicate that dynamic visuals can deepen emotional exploration, enrich narratives, and expand self-expression, though individual differences and content variability remain challenges. This work offers a novel methodology for integrating generative AI into psychological assessment and creative arts while highlighting its potential and ethical considerations.

Despite the growing popularity of data videos, guidance on designing narrative climaxes that maximise viewers' emotional engagement remains scarce. To address this gap, our work leverages emotional theory to derive patterns for crafting emotionally resonant climaxes of data videos. We first analyzed the climaxes of 96 data videos, categorizing them into eight emotional dimensions based on Plutchik's basic emotion model. Based on data analysis, we then formulated 40 patterns for creating narrative climaxes. To evaluate the patterns when applied as design hints, we conducted a user study with 48 participants, where Group A created data video climaxes using our patterns, Group B created them without our patterns, and Group C used other patterns as the baseline. Evaluations by two experts and 20 general audiences revealed that the climaxes created with the patterns were more emotionally engaging. The participants also praised the clarity and practicality of the patterns.

Storytelling is vital to children’s development by nurturing creative thinking, effective communication, and self-expression. Many tools have been created to support children’s creativity. Unfortunately, the existing tools do not adequately integrate visual elements with storytelling, limiting children’s imaginative potential. This study addresses the gap by introducing a proxy visual storytelling tool (PVST) that employs a character-based approach (i.e., proxy character assembling) to enhance children’s creativity and storytelling skills. Through a comparative study using Kurt Vonnegut’s “The Shape of Stories" theory, the PVST was evaluated. The results from a pilot test show that the PVST can increase children’s sense of agency and engagement in the storytelling learning process. Additionally, it can stimulate children’s creative imagination, improve their storytelling abilities, and enable them to construct more fluent and articulate narratives. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating visual storytelling elements in enhancing children’s creativity and storytelling skills, ultimately fostering a more engaging and enriching learning experience.