Virtual Reality Helps People Accept Themselves
From: Product Design & Development - 11/13/2014

Self-compassion can be learned using avatars in an immersive virtual reality,
finds new research led by University College London.

This innovative approach reduced self-criticism and increased self-compassion
and feelings of contentment in naturally self-critical individuals. The
scientists behind the Medical Research Council funded study say it could be
applied to treat a range of clinical conditions including depression.

Excessive self-criticism plays a prominent role in the development and
persistence of many mental health problems including depression. The
scientists say people who are self-compassionate tend to have lower levels of
self-criticism and are better able to cope with negative life events because
self-compassion acts as a buffer, helping to promote a positive mood and
general wellbeing.

Read the entire article at:
http://www.pddnet.com/news/2014/11/virtual-reality-helps-people-accept-themselves

Links:
Mel Slater
http://www0.cs.ucl.ac.uk/staff/m.slater/Mel_Slaters_Home_Page/Home.html

Compassion Project
http://www0.cs.ucl.ac.uk/research/vr/Compassion/index.htm

Virtual Reality Teaches Self-Acceptance
http://www.wirelessdesignmag.com/news/2014/11/virtual-reality-teaches-self-acceptance

Virtual Reality Offers Psychological Therapy
http://www.mdtmag.com/news/2014/11/virtual-reality-offers-psychological-therapy