Enhancing Well-Being: A Comparative Study of Virtual Reality Chromotherapy Rooms with Static, Dynamic, and Empty Environments

Mine Dastan ¹, Marina Ricci ¹, Fabio Vangi ¹

⁰Department of Mechanics, Mathematics, and Management, Polytechnic University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy.

Sensors (basel, Switzerland) +

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March 28, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Virtual reality chromotherapy rooms (VRCRs) can improve mood and well-being. Dynamic VRCR designs enhance user presence and engagement, suggesting potential for future immersive interfaces.

Area Of Science

Psychology
Human-Computer Interaction
Virtual Reality

Background

Chromotherapy rooms (CRs) use colored lights to improve mood and health.
Virtual reality chromotherapy rooms (VRCRs) offer flexible, cost-effective alternatives to physical CRs.
Current VRCRs have limited applications and do not fully explore design potential.

Purpose Of The Study

To compare the effectiveness of three VRCR designs: empty, static, and dynamic.
To evaluate user experience, sense of presence, and stress levels across different VRCR conditions.
To investigate the potential of VRCRs in enhancing well-being and engagement.

Main Methods

A between-subject experiment with 30 participants was conducted.
Participants experienced three VRCR conditions: empty (blue void), static (abstract graphics), and dynamic (animated elements).
Self-perceived questionnaires and a mathematical stress test were administered before and after VRCR exposure.

Main Results

The dynamic VRCR condition significantly increased the sense of presence.
No significant differences in self-perceived stress levels were found across conditions.
Participants in the dynamic condition reported higher engagement and involvement, perceiving shorter durations.

Conclusions

Dynamic VRCR designs enhance user presence and engagement, indicating their potential for well-being applications.
VRCRs exhibit complex behaviors requiring further design research, especially for future widespread VR integration.
The study highlights the need for continued investigation into VRCR design principles for optimal user experience.

Keywords:

color therapy immersive virtual worlds interaction design stress management user presence wellbeing