Virtual Reality (VR) systems are a sophisticated interplay of technology and human perception. VR systems share three main features: immersion, interaction, and a sense of presence. Many empirical studies have since recognized VR as an important therapeutic tool. Research in VR and psychology has increased exponentially over the last few decades and has been reviewed previously. In our review, we will examine VR use in autism research as an illustrative example to demonstrate a need for precise definitions. Three databases were chosen: Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar. 42 studies were analysed. Recommendations for future research have emerged from the reviewed literature, such as the need for larger sample sizes representing the entire autism spectrum and wider age ranges. The most substantial problem in the literature reviewed is the problem of definitions of VR. We describe the need for clear definitions of the equipment used and propose more refined terminology.

PurposeGlobal and local processing is part of human perceptual organisation, where global processing helps extract the “gist” of the visual information and local processing helps perceive the details. Individual differences in these two types of visual processing have been found in autism and ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Virtual reality (VR) has become a more available method of research in the last few decades. No previous research has investigated perceptual differences using this technology.Design/methodology/approachThe objective of the research is to threefold: (1) identify if there is association between ADHD and autistic traits and the performance on the Rey-Osterrieth complex figure (ROCF) task, (2) investigate practical effects of using VR drawing tools for research on perceptual experiences and (3) explore any perceptual differences brought out by the three-dimensional nature of the VR. The standard ROCF test was used as a baseline task to investigate the practical utility of using VR as an experimental platform. A total of 94 participants were tested.FindingsAttention-to-detail, attention switching and imagination subscales of autism quotient (AQ) questionnaire were found to be predictors of organisational ROCF scores, whereas only the attention-to-detail subscale was predictive of perceptual ROCF scores.Originality/valueThe current study is an example of how classic psychological paradigms can be transferred into the virtual world. Further investigation of the distinct individual preferences in drawing tasks in VR could lead to a better understanding of individual differences in the processing of visuospatial information.

Global and local processing is part of human perceptual organisation, where global processing enables us to extract the ‘gist’ of the visual information and local processing helps us to perceive the details. Individual differences in these two types of visual processing have been found in autism and ADHD. Virtual Reality (VR) has become a more available method of research in the last few decades. No previous research has investigated perceptual differences using this technology. The standard ROCF test was used as a baseline task to look at a practical aspect of using VR as an experimental platform. 94 participants were tested. Attention-to-Detail, Attention Switching and Imagination subscales of AQ questionnaire were found to be predictors of organisational ROCF scores, whereas only Attention-to?Detail subscale was predictive of perceptual ROCF scores. Current study is an example of how classic psychological paradigms can be transferred into the virtual world. Further investigation of the distinct individual preferences in drawing tasks in VR could lead to a better understanding on how we process visuospatial information. As a result, such findings would inevitably extend to industrial applications.

This paper describes a smart tablet-based drawing app to digitally record participants’ engagement with the Rey-Osterrieth complex figure (ROCF) task, a well-characterised perceptual memory task that assesses local and global memory. Digitisation of the tasks allows for improved ecological validity, especially in children attracted to tablet devices. Further, digital translation of the tasks affords new measures, including accuracy and computation of the fine motor control kinematics employed to carry out the drawing Here, we report a feasibility study to test the relationship between two neurodevelopmental conditions: autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The smart tablet app was employed with 39 adult participants (18-35) characterised for autistic and ADHD traits, and scored using the ROCF perceptual and organisational scoring systems. Trait scores and conditions were predictor variables in linear regression models. Positive correlations were found between the attention-to-detail, attention-switching and communication subscales of the autistic trait questionnaire and organisational scores on the ROCF task. These findings suggest that autistic traits might be linked to differential performance on the ROCF task. Novelty and future applications of the app are discussed.

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