Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 1-30-2024

Abstract

This thesis investigates individuals' experiences with SoundSelf, a virtual reality (VR) program inspired by psychedelic experience, focusing on its capacity to evoke awe and other self-transcendent experiences. Conducted with fifteen participants, the study involved a single VR session followed by in-depth phenomenological interviews. Through a thematic analysis, three primary themes were constructed: (a) emotions and feelings, the good and the bad; (b) non-reflective engagements, directly living experience; and (c) reflective engagements, exploring curiosity and wonder. The findings indicate that while SoundSelf can elicit a wide array of emotions and self-transcendent experiences, it does not consistently induce awe. This research contributes to understanding VR as a tool for complex emotional exploration and sheds light on the phenomenology of awe related experiences in abstract virtual environments. Limitations of the study include the single-session and specific participant selection. Future research should further explore VR-induced self-transcendent experiences along with the influence of individual dispositions.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

David Witherington, Ph.D.

Second Committee Member

Paul Watson, Ph.D.

Third Committee Member

Bruce Smith, Ph.D.

Fourth Committee Member

Katie Witkiewitz Ph.D.

Language

English

Keywords

awe, wonder, curiosity, emotion, phenomenology, self-transcendent experience, virtual reality (VR)

Document Type

Thesis

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