Virtual Reality Technology in Individual Self-Compassion Interventions: A Scoping Review
AI Summary
VR self-compassion interventions classify into non-interactive and interactive (scene and character formats), differing in technical demands and target populations.
Overall positive effects on self-compassion observed, with good adherence and user experience, although effect sizes varied by intervention type.
Most studies had methodological limitations; further high-quality, large-sample randomised controlled trials and long-term outcome monitoring are needed.
Inquiry. 2026 Jan-Dec;63:469580261464010. doi: 10.1177/00469580261464010. Epub 2026 Jun 24.
ABSTRACT
IntroductionSelf-compassion has demonstrated substantial advantages in regulating anxiety and depression across diverse population groups. Nevertheless, conventional methods for augmenting self-compassion are dependent on an individual’s imaginative faculties. Virtual reality presents a novel avenue for self-compassion intervention. But these interventions vary considerably in their types, session duration and frequency, and outcome assessment measures. This scoping review integrates evidence regarding the application of virtual reality (VR) in self-compassion interventions, with the aim of providing information and guidance for future clinical implementation.MethodsWe conducted a systematic search of ten databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP. The search period extended from the inception of the databases to November 4, 2025. All the included studies met the eligibility criteria.ResultsSixteen studies were included. Interventions were classified as non-interactive virtual reality (VR) self-compassion interventions and interactive interventions involving virtual scenes or characters. Non-interactive VR has a low usage threshold, making it suitable for most individuals. Scene-based interactive interventions are brief and allow simple interactions, suiting those with short attention spans. Character-based interactive interventions promote deeper emotional engagement but require more complex operations, fitting individuals with marked self-conflict and high cooperation. Although effects varied by intervention type, an overall positive trend was observed. Participants demonstrated good adherence and favorable user experiences; several studies also adopted strategies to enhance adherence.ConclusionVR-based self-compassion interventions fall into non-interactive and interactive types, each differing in technical features and target populations. Overall, these interventions effectively enhance self-compassion, and participants generally show high acceptance. However, most studies have methodological limitations. Therefore, the conclusions require further validation through high-quality, large-sample randomized controlled trials that also monitor long-term intervention effects.
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