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Awe and Well-Being: The Role of Nature Connectedness in Enhancing Student Well-Being through Virtual Reality Nature

Menkhaus, Milan Karam (2024) Awe and Well-Being: The Role of Nature Connectedness in Enhancing Student Well-Being through Virtual Reality Nature.

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Abstract:Introduction: This study investigates the extent to which exposure to awe-inducing virtual reality (VR) nature has an effect on the subjective well-being of university students, while particularly focusing on how this relationship is moderated by nature connectedness. This is done in the context of the university student population potentially facing negative health consequences in the form of decreased well-being caused by restricted access to nature due to urbanization. Results: The results showed a significant increase in perceived awe after the intervention. However, no significant impact of these increased awe levels on the subjective well-being of the participants was observed. Additionally, the relationship between awe and well-being was not significantly moderated by nature connectedness contrary to initial expectations. Discussion: These findings emphasize the capability of VR to elicit feelings of awe, even though a connection between heightened awe levels and well-being was not established nor moderated by nature connectedness. This challenges the academic consensus that awe generally positively contributes to well-being. Considering this, this study highlights the need for further research within this complex domain to further optimize VR interventions targeted at well-being enhancement leading to optimal exploitation of VR`s potential as a therapeutic tool in this context.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology BSc (56604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/100725
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