An Integrated Platform Combining Immersive Virtual Reality and Physiological Sensors for Systematic and Individualized Assessment of Stress Response (bWell): Design and Implementation Study

作者：Budhachandra S. Khundrakpam, Melanie Segado, J. Pazdera, Vincent Gagnon Shaigetz, Joshua A. Granek, Nusrat Choudhury · 发表于：JMIR Formative Research · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.2196/64492 · 被引用次数：7 · 研究领域：Medicine

Background Stress is a pervasive issue in modern society, manifesting in various forms such as emotional, physical, and work-related stress, each with distinct impacts on individuals and society. Traditional stress studies often rely on psychological, performance, or social tests; however, recently, immersive virtual reality (VR), which provides a sense of presence and natural interaction, offers the opportunity to simulate real-world tasks and stressors in controlled environments. Despite its potential, the use of VR to investigate the multifaceted manifestations of stress has not been thoroughly explored. Objective This study aimed to explore the feasibility of using a VR-based platform, bWell, to elicit multifaceted stress responses and measure the resulting behavioral and physiological changes. Specifically, we aimed to design various VR stress exercises based on neurocardiac models to systematically test cardiac functioning within specific contexts of self-regulation (executive functioning, physical efforts, and emotional regulation). Methods The development process adhered to guidelines for VR clinical trials and complex health interventions, encompassing 3 phases: preparation, development, and verification. The preparation phase involved a comprehensive literature review to establish links between stress, the heart, and the brain, leading to the formulation of a conceptual model based on the Neurovisceral Integration Model (NVIM) and Vagal Tank Theory (VTT). The develo...