The Use of Mindfulness in the Metaverse: A Scoping Review
摘要
This scoping review aimed to address a significant research limitation concerning mindfulness practices within the metaverse. The primary aim was to examine whether metaverse-based mindfulness training programs incorporate fundamental elements of traditional mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) and adhere to core mindfulness principles.
MethodsThe review followed the five-step framework for scoping reviews, with a comprehensive search strategy employed across six databases, covering scholarly articles published between January 2015 and August 2023.
ResultsThe review identified 23 studies combining mindfulness practices with virtual reality (VR) technology. Key findings include the following: (1) research in this field is in its infancy, with a lack of consistency in defining and measuring mindfulness; (2) a wide variety of study designs and implementations were observed, presenting challenges for drawing meaningful conclusions; (3) high levels of engagement were reported, but may be influenced by the novelty effect of VR; (4) mixed results were found across studies regarding the effectiveness of VR-based mindfulness interventions; and (5) there was limited ethnic diversity in study populations.
ConclusionsWhile VR-based mindfulness interventions show promise, there is a critical need for more rigorous, high-quality studies that adhere to standardized definitions of mindfulness, employ validated measurement tools, and explore long-term effects. Future research should focus on developing a core set of outcome measures, investigating the sustainability of engagement, and expanding studies to include more diverse populations.
PreregistrationThis study is not preregistered.