Virtual Reality as a Tool for Self-Reflection to Support Well-Being and Resilience

Abstract: Reflective practice supported through technology is frequently employed in HCI research with the goal of improving the well-being of its users. One technology that may facilitate reflection is immersive Virtual Reality (VR) technology which allows for embodied experiences and experiential learning. In this workshop paper, we present a VR experience that uses reflective practice to strengthen resilience based on the work of psychotherapist Viktor Frankl. The VR encourages people to reflect on meaning in life through universal experiences (e.g., guilt, loss). We present the conception and evaluation of the VR experience. Based on this, we discuss aspects that affect the ability to support well-being through reflection in VR, such as the relevance of a theoretical and psychological foundation of reflective practice, the relevance of identifying and utilising technology-specific affordances to enhance reflective practice, and the potential of peer-support for reflection.