The effective of the relaxation scenario in virtual reality technology for young people

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Abstract

In order to study the effect of the relaxation scenario in virtual reality technology on the psychophysiological state, 20 young people without signs of mental and behavioral disorders were examined. Each participant completed a series of 5 trainings using the Kayak VR: Mirage app while wearing Pico 4 PRO virtual reality glasses. At the end of the training, a statistically significant decrease in the level of hopelessness (p = 0.035) and anxiety (p = 0.047) was found. Also, during the training, all participants in the study observed changes in the work of the autonomic nervous system, which were expressed in an increase in the peripheral temperature of the phalanx of the finger, an increase in the amplitude of the photoplethysmogram, as well as a decrease in the reflection index, stiffness index, heart rate, stress index and the adequacy of regulatory processes. Thus, in order to reduce the subclinical level of stress-related anxiety in young people, it can be recommended to conduct a series of relaxation trainings in VR, without resorting to pharmacological methods. The main effect of relaxation in a VR environment is achieved by enhancing the function of the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system.

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About the authors

S. A. Galkin

Mental Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, RAS

Author for correspondence.
Email: s01091994@yandex.ru
Russian Federation, Tomsk

A. S. Sozonov

Mental Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, RAS; Siberian State Medical University

Email: s01091994@yandex.ru
Russian Federation, Tomsk; Tomsk

M. A. Bykova

Mental Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, RAS

Email: s01091994@yandex.ru
Russian Federation, Tomsk

O. V. Roshchina

Mental Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, RAS

Email: s01091994@yandex.ru
Russian Federation, Tomsk

N. A. Bokhan

Mental Health Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, RAS; Siberian State Medical University

Email: s01091994@yandex.ru
Russian Federation, Tomsk; Tomsk

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Supplementary files

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2. Fig. 1. Dynamics of changes in vegetative parameters before and after the VR session.

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3. Fig. 2. Dynamics of changes in vegetative indicators during the entire training.

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