Can virtual reality increase the realism of role plays used to teach college women sexual coercion and rape-resistance skills?

The present study evaluated whether virtual reality (VR) can enhance the realism of role plays designed to help college women resist sexual attacks. Sixty-two female undergraduate students were randomly assigned to either the Role Play (RP) or Virtual Role Play (VRP) conditions, which were differentiated only by the use of VR technology in the VRP condition. A multimethod assessment strategy was used to evaluate the effects of VR on the experienced realism of sexually threatening role plays. Realism was assessed by participant self-reports of negative affect and perceptions of realism, direct observation of participants' verbal displays of negative affect during the role plays, and measurements of participant heart rate during the role plays. Results indicated that VR can indeed heighten the realism of sexually threatening role plays. Discussion focuses on issues regarding the use of VR-enhanced role plays for helping college women resist sexual attacks
Author: 
Jouriles,E.N.
McDonald,R.
Kullowatz,A.
Rosenfield,D.
Gomez,G.S.
Cuevas,A.
Notes: 
DA
Reprint Status: 
NOT IN FILE
Start Page: 
337
End Page: 
345
Volume: 
40
Issue: 
4
Abstract: 
This study assessed the impact of virtual reality on increased realism of role plays that teach sexual coercion and rape-resistance skills. The sample included 62 female college students between the ages of 18 and 30. Four male actors were provided with training and instructions for both role play conditions. Participants were randomly assigned to the standard role play or virtual role play. Those assigned to the standard role play interacted with male actors. Participants in the virtual role play wore headphones and goggles and experienced a virtual environment with a male avatar that was controlled by a male actor. Negative affect and perceived realism were enhanced in the virtual role plays, but heart rate remained consistent among participants in the virtual role plays and standard role plays. Findings suggested that using virtual reality as a tool may be beneficial in simulating realistic conditions to teach college-aged women sexual coercion and rape-resistance skills.
Topic Areas: 
Avoidance Resistance, College
Reference Type: 
JOUR
Reference ID: 
2648
Publication Date: 
2009/12