선메디 VR자연명상 프로그램이 팬데믹을 경험한 대학생들의 긍정적 사고, 사회심리적 스트레스, 사회적 걱정에 미치는 영향

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the effects of a VR natural meditation program, combining Seon meditation and innovative VR technology, on positive thinking, social psychological stress, and social concern among university students who experienced stress and emotional exhaustion due to social distancing measures.
 Methods An experimental study was conducted on 34 university students who had undergone a complete suspension of school for more than one semester as a result of social distancing measures. The control group did not receive any intervention, while the experimental group participated in a VR natural meditation program consisting of four sessions over a two-week period. To evaluate the program's effectiveness, positive thinking, social psychological stress, and social concern were assessed in both groups, and the results were compared and analyzed using covariance analysis (ANCOVA).
 Results The study reports some significant findings. Firstly, the experimental group demonstrated a notable increase in positive thinking following the VR natural meditation experience. In addition, the levels of social psychological stress and social concern significantly decreased among the participants. In their self-evaluation reports after undergoing the VR treatment, the participants reported enhanced focus, strengthened coping skills, increased confidence in managing daily challenges, and a more positive outlook towards uncertain situations instead of being negatively overwhelmed by their consequences.
 Conclusions These results suggest that the SEONMEDI VR Natural Meditation Program holds potential as an intervention to promote the psychological well-being of university students who have faced social disconnection and emotional exhaustion caused by social disasters.