MAMA VR: A Framework to Design Mindfulness-Based Programs in Virtual Reality

Abstract

Research demonstrates numerous benefits of mindfulness practice, and virtual reality is a promising medium that can be tailored to foster mindfulness through novel means. Yet, to be effective, mindfulness-based programs in virtual reality (MBP+VR) should adhere to evidence-based methods. For various reasons, the level of mindfulness among users, the acceptability of VR technology, users\u27 mood, and adherence to mindfulness programs are often evaluated in studies on MBP+VR. However, due in part to the heterogeneity of MBP+VR designs and a lack of detailed descriptions of MBP+VR methods in much of the scientific literature to date, there is no agreement yet on how to achieve each of these desired outcomes. This study supports the development of a framework to guide the design of MBP+VR that satisfies the criteria of Mindfulness, Accessibility, Mood, and Adherence (MAMA), as these criteria exert interconnected effects on the cultivation of mindfulness in virtual reality. This study also analyzes theories and empirical research on mindfulness, virtual reality, and related fields to produce design recommendations for MBP+VR. While this paper provides rationale for many design considerations, it is not an exhaustive list of all possible features to enhance MAMA. I encourage future studies to expand the list of design recommendations for each MAMA criterion, particularly as new research emerges