Paws and Peaks: Exploring the processes and effects of positive emotion and immersive media technology on mental wellness
Di Mu
Washington State University
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
07/2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000007070
Files and links (1)
pdf
MU_DISSERTATION_FINAL_0809775.35 kB
Embargoed Access, Embargo ends: 10/11/2026
Abstract
Media Psychology Media Psychophysiology Positive Emotions Mental Health Stress Technology
As the prevalence of mental health issues continues to rise in the United States and globally, young adults are particularly susceptible to mental health challenges due to their still-maturing brains and the significant uncertainty they face during this stage of life. Consequently, there is an urgent need to explore effective strategies for improving mental well-being, especially for young people. At the same time, they are frequent users of media and technology, particularly immersive technology. This study investigates the impacts of positive emotions—specifically, kama muta and awe—and immersive technology on mental well-being through the Media Psychophysiology paradigm. Results indicate that both kama muta and awe have a positive effect on stress reduction, and virtual reality enhances the perception of these positive emotions. Implications and future directions regarding the stress reduction effects and psychophysiological processing of positive emotion-induced media content in an immersive environment are discussed.
Metrics
Details
Title
Paws and Peaks
Creators
Di Mu
Contributors
Paul David Bolls (Co-Chair)
Yen-I Lee (Co-Chair)
Erica Weintraub Austin (Committee Member)
Yuan Wang (Committee Member)
Awarding Institution
Washington State University
Academic Unit
Edward R. Murrow College of Communication
Theses and Dissertations
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University