Unimanual and Bimanual Weight Perception of Virtual Objects with a new Multi-finger Haptic Interface

Accurate weight perception is important particularly in tasks where the user has to apply vertical forces to ensure safe landing of a fragile object or precise penetration of a surface with a probe. Moreover, depending on physical properties of objects such as weight and size we may switch between unimanual and bimanual manipulation during a task. Research has shown that bimanual manipulation of real objects results in a misperception of their weight: they tend to feel lighter than similarly heavy objects which are handled with one hand only [8]. Effective simulation of bimanual manipulation with desktop haptic interfaces should be able to replicate this effect of bimanual manipulation on weight perception. Here, we present the MasterFinger-2, a new multi-finger haptic interface allowing bimanual manipulation of virtual objects with precision grip and we conduct weight discrimination experiments to evaluate its capacity to simulate unimanual and bimanual weight. We found that the bimanual ‘lighter’ bias is also observed with the MasterFinger-2 but the sensitivity to changes of virtual weights deteriorated

Reducing risk and improving maternal perspective-taking and empathy using virtual embodiment

The ability to perspective-take (cognitive awareness of another's state) and empathise (emotional/affective response) are important characteristics for sensitive, co-operative and constructive parenting, which assists in developing adaptive functioning for children. For the first time, immersive virtual reality was used to place parents in the position of a child in order to assess impact on perspective-taking and empathy. This novel study was conducted with 20 non-high risk Spanish mothers (a pilot study with 12 mothers is reported in supplementary files). Mothers were virtually embodied as a 4-year-old child, experienced from the first-person perspective and with virtual and real body movements synchronised. They interacted with a 'mother avatar', which responded either in a Positive or Negative way. Participants reported a strong body ownership illusion for the child body that led to cognitive, emotional and physical reactions. Experiencing negative maternal behavior increased levels of empathy. In addition, the Negative mother led to increased feelings of fear of violence. Physiological data indicated greater stress in the Negative than Positive condition. Although further research is required to assess the effectiveness of such methods, any improvement in empathy that leads to a change in parenting behavior has the potential to impact on developmental outcomes for children

Positive Impacts of Prison-Based Gardening and Horticultural Activities for Previously Incarcerated Individuals

Nature deprivation is common in prison populations, with repercussions that may be contributing to severe mental health issues. Although literature has illuminated countless benefits of nature exposure within prisons, there is little research surrounding the effects of in-prison nature-based activities post-release. To ‘‘follow prisoners through the gate,’’ this research explores post-release reflections of people previously incarcerated (PPIs) in relation to the impacts of prison based gardening and horticultural activities (GHAs). Although the terms are often used interchangeably, gardening is typically a leisure activity, whereas horticulture relates more often to work and studying plants. Both terms relate to plant cultivation. An inductive approach was adopted using a written qualitative design to guide data analysis. Using a set of online qualitative questions, 11 (N = 11) participants from different countries across the globe were recruited through social media platforms and contacting relevant services. To generate data-driven themes and address the research question, Braun et al.’s thematic analysis procedure was followed to allow for an iterative flexible approach. PPIs generally experienced GHAs as beneficial in prison, with their value remaining after release. Such benefits included self-development, better mental health, community reconnection, enhanced interpersonal relationships, and improved employability. This study illuminated a need for further research to explore post-release reflections of GHAs in prison. If such research were to support the findings from this study, there may be potential for improvements in PPIs’ rehabilitative outcomes and desistance from crime. Areas of focus for future research might include longitudinal and quantitative studies, nature-based community programmes, and creative ways to incorporate nature into prison environments. Prison systems across the globe vary in how gardening and horticulture are used, so this could also be a focus for future research.</p

Overuse of institutional care for children in Europe

Children in institutional care are at risk of attachment disorder and developmental delay, but Europe still relies heavily on this form of care for children in adversit

To Intervene or not to Intervene:Young adults’ views on When and How to Intervene in Online Harassment

Incidents of online harassment are increasing and can have significant consequences for victims. Witnesses (‘digital bystanders’) can be crucial in identifying and challenging harassment. This study considered when and how young adults intervene online, with the aim of understanding the applicability of existing theoretical models (i.e., Bystander Intervention Model; Response Decision-Making Framework). Thematic analysis of eight focus groups (UK community sample, N=67, 18-25 years) resulted in five themes: Noticing and Interpreting the Harassment, Perceived Responsibility for Helping, Consequences of Intervening, Perceived Ability to Make a Difference, and Deciding How to Help. The online context amplified offline preferences, such as greater preference for anonymity and perceived costs of intervention (e.g., social costs). Intervention strategies varied in visibility and effort, preferring ‘indirect’ micro-interventions focused on supporting victims. A new, merged model specific to digital bystanders is proposed, with implications for the design and messaging on Social Networking Sites (SNS) discussed