Building long-term empathy: A large-scale comparison of traditional and virtual reality...

Two studies tested VR’s effectiveness in fostering empathy compared to traditional methods.

Overview

Authors: F. Herrera, J.N. Bailenson, E. Weisz, E. Ogle, J. Zaki

Publication Date: 2018

Link: https://vhil.stanford.edu/publications/empathydiversity/building-long-term-empathy-large-scale-comparison-traditional-and

Keywords: empathy, VR, DEI, perspective-taking, social cognition, empathy interventions, immersive technology, HCI

Type: Peer-Reviewed Journals/White Papers

Summary

Two studies tested VR’s effectiveness in fostering empathy compared to traditional methods. Study 1 found that while both approaches increased empathy for the homeless, VR led to longer-lasting positive attitudes and higher petition-signing rates. Study 2 showed that all perspective-taking methods increased empathy more than factual information, but VR participants were significantly more likely to take action. Findings suggest VR enhances long-term attitude change and real-world engagement.