A new study led by Michigan State University scientists reveals that sports games using augmented and virtual reality can reduce loneliness and support mental health. The research, conducted by assistant professors Sanghoon Kim and Sangchul Park from MSU’s College of Education, highlights the role of AR and VR in fostering social presence and psychological benefits.
Key findings include:
- 345 participants took part in the survey.
- Games analyzed included table tennis, bowling, and billiards on platforms such as Wii Sports and Home Sports.
- Users who felt socially connected in-game reported stronger mental health benefits.
Table of contents:
- Sanghoon Kim and Sangchul Park focus on social presence
- Methodology of the Michigan State University survey
- Virtual avatars and stronger human interaction
- Contributions of Jun-Phil Uhm and Sungsook Ahn
Sanghoon Kim and Sangchul Park focus on social presence
The study, published in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, demonstrated that playing AR and VR sports games promotes psychological well-being by creating feelings of social connection and real-time interaction. The positive effects were particularly significant among individuals experiencing loneliness.
"These findings remind us that psychological well-being is multifaceted," said Kim and Park. "Even in gaming, it's shaped not only by what people experience in virtual environments, but also by how those experiences connect with their real-life relationships and social ties."
Methodology of the Michigan State University survey
The research team analyzed the responses of 345 voluntary participants. They were asked to complete a questionnaire that assessed:
- Game engagement.
- Levels of loneliness.
- Mental well-being.
- Additional social and psychological factors.
According to Kim and Park, "The importance of these findings is to show that well-being is a complex and multidimensional construct that can be more fully understood when both individuals' sources of enjoyment—for example, games—and their social experiences—for example, loneliness—are considered simultaneously."
Virtual avatars and stronger human interaction
The study found that AR and VR sports games can generate a strong sense of presence with others through avatars, real-time communication, and nonverbal cues. This type of interaction moved beyond text-based communication, offering richer and more human connections.
"When people feel present with others through avatars or virtual interaction, the experience becomes more than just a game," said Kim. "That is the power of social presence."
Contributions of Jun-Phil Uhm and Sungsook Ahn
The research also involved Jun-Phil Uhm from Inha University and Sungsook Ahn from Cheongju University. They highlighted the potential therapeutic use of AR and VR sports games, especially for individuals struggling with loneliness. At the same time, they stressed limitations.
The study concluded, "Not everyone benefits from AR/VR sports games," emphasizing the need to educate users, practitioners, and policymakers about both the potential and the risks.
Researchers suggest that while AR and VR games are not a universal solution, they could play a role in mental health strategies if combined with proper guidance and regulation.
Source: PHYS ORG