The impact of integrated subtitles on viewers’ comprehension, emotions, and reception: A mixed-methods study

Abstract

This paper reports on a mixed-methods study that examined the impact of integrated subtitles on viewers’ comprehension, emotions, and reception. Two groups of Chinese viewers were randomly assigned to a control group (n = 31) and an experimental group (n = 31). The control group watched French videos with standard Chinese subtitles positioned at the bottom of the screen, while the experimental group watched the same videos with integrated subtitles placed closer to the speakers as part of the mise-en-scène. Major findings included the following: (a) the two groups did not differ in their comprehension of film content; (b) integrated subtitles modestly contributed to the participants’ emotional intensity with regard to the protagonists; (c) integrated subtitles led to higher self-reported cognitive load; (d) integrated subtitles were perceived less favourably compared to the standard subtitles; and (e) presentation-, product-, and person-related factors were identified to shape the participants’ perception of integrated subtitles. Building on these findings, the paper discusses some practical suggestions for promoting integrated subtitles and personalised subtitles.