Evaluation of a Virtual Reality Platform to Train Stress Management Skills for a Defense Workforce: Multisite, Mixed...

Area of Science:

• Occupational health and performance psychology
• Human-computer interaction
• Military psychology

Background:

• First responders face psychological stress, necessitating effective management training.
• Existing stress management solutions often lack scalability or cultural alignment with military settings.
• High-quality, expert-led programs can be prohibitively expensive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of the Performance Edge (PE) virtual reality (VR) and biofeedback stress management training platform within the Australian Defense Force (ADF).
• To assess user acceptance predictors like usability, usefulness, and engagement.
• To measure the training impacts of the VR platform on military personnel.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods, multisite study was conducted within the ADF's real-world training environment.
• Data collection included observational, self-reported, and biometric measures.
• Validated scales (Presence Questionnaire, User Engagement Scale, State Mindfulness Scale) and custom surveys were utilized.

Main Results:

• The PE VR platform was delivered to 189 ADF trainees in 372 sessions, demonstrating ease of use and classroom feasibility.
• Trainees reported high engagement, a strong sense of presence, and perceived the platform as useful and effective.
• Objective and self-reported data confirmed improved knowledge, skill confidence, competency, state mindfulness, physical relaxation, and reduced breathing rate.

Conclusions:

• The VR-based PE platform is a feasible stress management training solution for group delivery in a defense population.
• End-users (trainers and trainees) perceived the platform as usable, useful, and engaging, suggesting high potential for technology adoption.
• The immersive and private VR environment facilitated effective practice of cognitive strategies within a group setting.