Traditional neuropsychological and psychological assessment presents significant limitations in terms of ecological validity, as conventional methods often fail to adequately reproduce real-life situations. While patients may demonstrate strong performance in structured clinical environments, they might encounter significant difficulties in daily activities, not only at a cognitive level but also in social interactions and emotional management. This discrepancy can lead to an incomplete assessment of an individual's true capabilities, limiting the effectiveness of intervention strategies.
The implementation of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) technologies, encompassing computer-generated scenarios and 360° videos, offers a promising solution to this challenge. These immersive virtual environments can enable ecologically valid assessments of cognitive, social, and emotional functions. Specifically, virtual environments can simulate realistic challenges such as managing complex social situations, responding to emotional stimuli, performing workplace multitasking, or navigating crowded urban environments.
The core problem this research topic aims to address is the limited ecological validity of current neuropsychological and psychological assessment methods, which can lead to an inadequate understanding of patients' real-world functioning. To enhance ecological validity, we propose integrating both 360° videos and/or computer-generated VR environments into assessment protocols to simulate real-world scenarios with varying levels of complexity and experimental control.
Manuscripts relating to the following themes and scopes are particularly welcomed:
1) Theoretical Frameworks and Methodologies:
• Development of innovative assessment protocols utilizing either computer-generated VR environments or 360° videos
• Experimental design considerations: technical specifications, optimization, and integration of different technologies
• Aspects of spatial audio, tracking, realism, and immersion
• Methodologies for evaluating emotional and behavioral responses in virtual environments
2) Assessment Domains:
• Use of virtual environments to assess cognitive functions (processing speed, attention, memory, executive functions, spatial navigation)
• Assessment of social skills, emotional regulation, and personality traits in virtual environments
• Comparative research between traditional and immersive technology-based testing methodologies
• Simulation techniques for evaluating daily living activities and social interactions
3) Clinical Applications:
• Use of VR and 360° technologies to enhance diagnosis and treatment planning
• Case studies demonstrating practical application in clinical settings
• Analysis of application across different populations (pediatric, adult, geriatric)
• Assessment of emotional and personality disorders through virtual scenarios
Original research articles, systematic reviews, perspective and commentary articles, and methodological analyses are all welcome for submission. Contributions may consist of theoretical, technical, clinical, or experimental work.
Keywords: 360° videos, 360° images, cognitive assessment, neuropsychology, ecological validity, immersive scenarios, memory, executive functions, attention, language, visuo-spatial abilities, activities of daily living
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
