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Relaxing at the perfect beach : influence of auditory stimulation on positive and negative affect in a virtual environment

Dermer, A. (2016) Relaxing at the perfect beach : influence of auditory stimulation on positive and negative affect in a virtual environment.

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Abstract:Virtual environments promise a scientific and applied approach in improving an individual’s emotional quality and wellbeing. Yet little research is focused on the effectiveness and potential of improving such applications. In response to the lack of research in this field, this study investigated the effect of auditory stimulation in a virtual environment to an individual’s experience of „presence“ and „positive affect“. Before and after being placed in a relaxing virtual environment, where participants were exposed to either natural sounds or a guided meditation exercise, the positive as well as negative affect was noted down. A mediational association between the auditory stimulation, affect and presence functioned as a predictor was conducted. Results revealed that (i) the virtual environment decreased negative affect but had no influence on positive affect, (ii) there were no differences in the intesifying of positive affect or decrease of negative affect in regard to auditory stimulation through natural sounds or a guided meditation, and (iii) auditory stimulation and its effects is neither associated nor mediated by presence. The study arrived to the conclusion that auditory stimulation in the form of natural sounds and guided meditation within a relaxing virtual environment has the potential to improve an individuals negative affect.
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/71263
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