Sometimes, when reality punches you in the gut, it is tempting to turn to “unreality” to escape. It may be as simple as turning to a sitcom or videogame after a difficult exchange with a roommate or family member. We’ve all done it, because it works…it distracts our mind long enough to let the negative emotions ebb and gives us time to return to a more comfortable emotional place.
At other times we turn to fantasy to intentionally trigger an emotional response because we enjoy the “feelings” that serve to remind us of our humanity. We read a romantic book, watch a funny TV show, or go to an action-adventure movie for the experience that each emotional experience brings.
But what about a recreation of something from our past for the purpose of giving us an opportunity to re-live an emotional moment? And what if that recreation could be a fully-immersive experience made possible by VR technology?
According to the PC Gamer website:
A South Korean TV documentary that aired on February 6 depicts Jang Ji-sung, mother of four, donning a headset, haptic gloves, and meeting a virtual recreation of her daughter Nayeon…Nayeon died in 2016 from an incurable disease at only seven years old…the documentary production team spent eight months building Nayeon, including her actual voice. An elaborate park scene was the backdrop, where the two played and celebrated Nayeon’s birthday.
I’m interested in know what you think…is this a healthy use of technology that will facilitate emotional healing?
