How virtual avatar experience interplays with self-concepts: the use of anthropometric 3D body models in the visual stimulation process

Juyeon Park,Jennifer Paff Ogle

doi:10.1186/s40691-021-00257-6

Juyeon Park, Jennifer Paff Ogle

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s40691-021-00257-6

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Abstract

We explored how viewing one’s anthropometric virtual avatar would affect the viewer’s self-body perception through the comparative evaluation of self-concepts—self-esteem and self-compassion, within the framework of allocentric lock theory. We recruited 18 female adults, aged 18–21, who identified themselves to have some level of body image concerns, and who had had no clinical treatment for their body image. Participants were randomly assigned either to the experimental or control group. The experimental group participated in both body positivity program and virtual avatar program, whereas the control group attended the body positivity program, only. The results affirmed that the body positivity program served as a psychological buffer prior to the virtual avatar stimulus. After the virtual avatar experience, the participants demonstrated self-acceptance by lowering their expectation on how they should look like. The findings from exit interviews enriched the quantitative results. This study verified the mechanism of the altered processing of the stored bodily memory by the egocentric sensory input of virtual avatars, and offered practical potential of the study outcomes to be applied in various emerging fields where novel applications of virtual 3D technology are sought, such as fashion e-commerce.

Highlights

The construct of body image involves an intricate composite of multiple attributes of the self as it is embedded in both the personal and sociocultural milieu (Cash & Pruzinsky, 1990)
We developed the body positivity program as a psychological buffer prior to the virtual avatar experience, in response to WoodBarcalow et al (2010) who suggested researchers and clinicians offer a foundation for positive body image before exposing study participants to interventive stimulus
We believe the results offer a promising outlook to the VRbased intervention program that we implemented in this study, as an effective clinical approach for the treatment of body image disturbance and its associated complications, since it seems to be able to turn the participants’ self-concepts in a positive direction, while fostering self-acceptance, allowing them to focus on what they can change within their control, rather than trying to reach unrealistic beauty ideals

Summary

Introduction

The construct of body image involves an intricate composite of multiple attributes of the self as it is embedded in both the personal and sociocultural milieu (Cash & Pruzinsky, 1990). Body image is associated with one’s physical body size and shape, and with one’s self-perceptions in relation to the body (Cash, 2004). It correlates with one’s self-concepts such as self-esteem and self-compassion. They often are considered interchangeable (Leary et al 2007; Neff & Vonk, 2009), self-esteem and self-compassion must be considered as distinct constructs.

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