Could virtual reality applications pose real risks to children and adolescents? A systematic review of ethical issues and concerns

Abstract

Virtual reality technologies (VRTs) are high-tech human–computer interfaces used to develop digital content and can be applied to multiple different areas, often offering innovative solutions to existing problems. A wide range of digital games is being also developed with VRTs and together with their components, the games' structural elements are appealing to children and engaging them more in virtual worlds. Our research interest is directed towards children's development and the effects of VRTs within gaming environments. Contemporary psychology studies perceive human development as a holistic and lifelong process with important interrelationships between physical, mental, social and emotional aspects. For the objectives and scope of this work, we examine children development across three domains: physical, cognitive and psychosocial. In this context, the authors review the literature on the impact of VRTs on children, in terms of software and hardware. Since research requires an wide-ranging approach, we study the evidence reported on the brain and neural structure, knowledge, behaviour, pedagogy, academic performance, and wellness. Our main concern is to outline the emerging ethical issues and worries of parents, educators, ophthalmologists, neurologists, psychologists, paediatricians and all relevant scientists, as well as the industry’s views and actions. The systematic review was performed on the databases Scopus, IEEE Xplore, PubMed, and Google Scholar from 2010 to 2020 and 85 studies were selected. The review concluded that findings remain contradictory especially for the psychosocial domain. Official recommendations from organizations and well-documented researches by academics on child well-being are reassuring if health and safety specifications and particularly the time limit are met. Research is still ongoing, constantly updated and consist of a priority for the scientific community given that technology evolves.

The Symbiosis of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy and Telemental Health: A Review

“…While the future is promising for VRET + TMH, there remains uncertainty about how acceptability and outcomes may vary by treatment populations, practitioner competencies, use cases, and ethics. Studies to date have not focused on diverse participant characteristics that may be relevant to risks and outcomes (Liu et al, 2020;Kaimara et al, 2021;Kothgassner and Felnhofer, 2021). TMH and VRET are not yet standard topics in professional education and training, which leaves providers with lingering hesitation (Cowan et al, 2019;Kourtesis et al, 2019;Hilty et al, 2020).…”

Future of mental health in the metaverse

“…The virtual environment allows participants to interact in real-time. 35 However, according to a study, most children displaying signs of gaming addiction had poor social skills and a higher tendency to act impulsively. 36 Additionally, it was discovered that increased loneliness and depression, anxiety, social fears, and poor academic performance are more likely to be the aftermath of addictive behaviour than to be the cause of it.…”

“…VR gaming systems provide a 3D immersive set-up that feels virtually comparable to real-life experience. The virtual environment allows participants to interact in real-time 35. However, according to a study, most children displaying signs of gaming addiction had poor social skills and a higher tendency to act impulsively 36.…”

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“…The traditional learning methods are outdated, and the teacher and the student collectively demand a new learning method. It is critical to understand that the students concerned with their learning are more interested in learning with the help of innovative technology in modern times ( 23 ). Technology has changed traditional learning methods and has helped improve the learning process for teachers and students.…”

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