How Self-Order Kiosks Help Customers Overcome Social Anxiety
Published: Jun 26th, 2025
The Psychology Behind Self-Order Kiosks – Part 6: How Kiosks Help Customers Overcome Social Anxiety
Have you ever hesitated to order extra cheese or gone with a “safe” choice just to avoid feeling judged by a cashier? You’re not alone. That internal discomfort you feel is called social anxiety, and it's more common than you think especially in fast-paced public spaces like restaurants. In this sixth installment of The Psychology Behind Self-Order Kiosks, we dive into how kiosk technology isn’t just convenient it’s liberating.
Freedom From Judgment
Social anxiety can cause customers to modify their choices out of fear of being perceived a certain way. Whether it’s ordering a large meal, adding extra sides, or customizing an “unusual” combination, the presence of another person can influence behavior and not in the way that benefits your bottom line.
With a self-order kiosk, customers enjoy a private, pressure-free environment where they can take their time, explore the menu, and order exactly what they want without fear of judgment.
More Toppings, Bigger Orders, Happier Customers
When customers feel at ease, something remarkable happens:
-
They customize more.
-
They upgrade more often.
-
They buy more.
Kiosks give people the chance to be themselves. And when customers are in control, they tend to order more confidently and more generously.
In fact, studies have shown that average ticket sizes increase when customers use kiosks compared to traditional ordering methods. It’s a win for your customers and your business.
The Takeaway for Restaurants
By removing the social friction from ordering, self-order kiosks unlock a new level of customer satisfaction. The result? Higher revenue, faster service, and a more inclusive dining experience.
If you’re ready to enrich your customer experience and boost sales, now’s the time to act.