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# 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](<https://vhil.stanford.edu/publications/empathydiversity/building-long-term-empathy-large-scale-comparison-traditional-and&#xA;>)

**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.


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