Mental health implications for presence

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Virtual Reality Studies

Background:

• The concept of presence in virtual reality (VR) is well-researched, focusing on interactive and environmental factors.
• The influence of an individual's mental status on the VR presence experience has been largely overlooked.
• Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and psychosis may alter responses to virtual environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of mental status on the experience of presence in virtual reality.
• To enhance the understanding of the presence construct within virtual environments.
• To inform the design of virtual environments and their therapeutic applications for emotional disorders.

Main Methods:

• This study reviews existing literature on virtual reality presence and mental health.
• It synthesizes findings to explore the potential differential effects of various mental states on presence.
• Qualitative and quantitative research methodologies are suggested for future investigations.

Main Results:

• Individuals with specific mental health conditions may exhibit unique responses to virtual reality environments.
• The interplay between mental status and VR presence requires further empirical investigation.
• Understanding these interactions can reveal new insights into presence and mental health.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of presence in VR necessitates considering the user's mental state.
• Future research should explore the nuanced relationship between mental disorders and virtual reality experiences.
• This knowledge can optimize VR for therapeutic interventions and user experience.