University of Twente Student Theses
Assessing the Effects of Virtual Reality and Multiple Selves on (Mental) Health Behavior: A Systematic Mixed-Method Review
Spielmann, Lina C. (2024) Assessing the Effects of Virtual Reality and Multiple Selves on (Mental) Health Behavior: A Systematic Mixed-Method Review.
|
PDF
87kB |
| Full Text Status: | Access to this publication is restricted |
| Embargo date: | 1 January 2026 |
| Abstract: | Introduction: We are facing a global health crisis, with mental and physical illnesses rising due to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. As health behaviors related to eating, sleeping, and drug consumption are key indicators for disorders, novel treatment approaches that improve these behaviors are urgently needed. One psychological mechanism influencing health behavior is the concept of multiple selves. Integrating multiple selves with virtual reality (VR) in interventions provides a promising method to address the global health crisis. Objective: This review investigates the effects of multiple selves VR interventions on mental and physical health behaviors, exploring both intervention outcomes and process outcomes, such as embodiment and presence. Method: A systematic mixed-method review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines, with databases searched in February 2024. The inclusion criteria were English, German, or Dutch language, adult samples, immersive VR, and the use of multiple selves. Results: Fourteen studies met the criteria, with only four addressing health behaviors. Promising effects were noted, particularly in mental health, with improvements in clinical symptoms. However, physical outcomes showed limited effects, with perceived improvement in physical self-efficacy. Future research should focus on exploring physical health outcomes and refining the research methodology to improve the effectiveness of these interventions in healthcare. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/103653 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page