Comparing Real and Virtual Nature Exposure on Cognition, Well-Being, and Brain Activity in Adults With and Without...

Area of Science:

• Environmental psychology
• Neuroscience
• Clinical psychology

Background:

• Natural environments enhance cognitive function and psychological well-being.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers simulated nature experiences.
• Impact of VR nature on adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of real vs. virtual nature exposure on cognition, well-being, and brain activity.
• To examine how neurocognitive profiles and ADHD symptom dimensions influence these responses.
• To assess the long-term maintenance of effects over an 8-week follow-up period.

Main Methods:

• 80 adults (40 with ADHD, 40 controls) randomly assigned to real or VR nature exposure.
• Mobile electroencephalography (EEG) recorded during a 20-minute exposure.
• Post-exposure cognitive tasks, mood, and nature connectedness assessments.
• 8-week longitudinal follow-up using ecological momentary assessment and mobile app data.

Main Results:

• Participant recruitment and data collection are scheduled to commence in early 2026.
• Data analysis is planned following data collection.
• Study findings are anticipated for publication in May 2028.

Conclusions:

• The study will determine if VR nature replicates real nature's cognitive and neural benefits.
• It will investigate differences in VR nature effects between adults with and without ADHD.
• Findings aim to establish VR nature as a complementary tool for attention and well-being.