Precise measurements of physical movements are taken covertly, automatically, and continuously over time, eliminating the requirement for resource-intensive human observation. Captures subtle indicators of variables participants are unable or unwilling to verbalize.

Five key strengths of VR-based research: Data collection

Immersive nature of VR allows users to feel a sense of presence. VR stimuli can elicit ecologically valid behaviors.

Five key strengths of VR-based research: Realism

A VR stimulus is presented in exactly the same format consistently, ensuring standardization.

Five key strengths of VR-based research: Experimental control

Researchers can create any situation as needed even if it is rare or impossible in real life. Includes ability for perspective-taking (participants can virtually “walk in another person’s shoes”).

Five key strengths of VR-based research: Adaptability

Once a VR-based experiment is created, it can be directly replicated anywhere including in hard to reach settings and populations.

Five key strengths of VR-based research: Mobility

Five core components of VR-based research has been identified that allows researchers to investigate behavioral, psychological, and social processes related to health and well-being. Collectively known as (DREAM)

-	Data Collection
-	Realism
-	Experimental Control
-	Adaptability
-	Mobility

Syracuse University

Virtual reality is an emerging communication technology that has become a more readily available consumer product, thusly strengthening its potential as a research tool for health psychology.

Virtual Reality (VR) in health care

Martingano, A. J., & Persky, S. (2021). Virtual reality expands the toolkit for conducting health psychology research. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 15(7). https://doi-org.libezproxy2.syr.edu/10.1111/spc3.12606

Virtual reality expands the toolkit for conducting health psychology research

Five key strengths of VR-based research

-	VR simulation of the senses: touch, smell, and taste are less well developed.
-	Flexible artificial intelligence programs for integration into VR experiences are not widespread or easily accessible.
-	Extremely costly. 

Limitations of VR-based research

Virtual Reality (VR) is being used at increasing rates to distract typically developing patients during medical procedures. There are findings that VR can effectively reduce pain and anxiety with few side effects. VR has been used successfully in patients with IDD during procedures like botulinum toxin injections (with and without nitrous oxide), venipuncture, casting, and postoperative pain management.

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