Aftereffects from Virtual Environment Exposure: How Long do They Last?

Abstract

The duration of the aftereffects from virtual environment (VE) exposure are not well characterized to date. Yet information concerning the incidence and enduring nature of these effects is essential to delimit the effective and safe use of VE technology. This study examined the aftereffects from VE exposure after three different exposure periods ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to one of the exposure periods, twenty to each condition. Sickness symptomatology, eye-hand coordination, and postural stability were measured before and after exposure. There were five measurements taken after exposure at 15 minute intervals. The results from the sickness symptomatology have been analyzed to date and show significantly higher symptomatology that persists for the entire post-exposure period in which measurements were taken. One hour after exposure the Total Severity of symptoms were 12 times higher than pre-exposure levels. Examining the three sub-dimensions of these symptoms indicated that one hour after exposure Nausea symptoms were 10x's higher, Oculomotor disturbances were 7x's higher and Disorientation was 95x's higher than pre-exposure levels. The very high levels of reported Disorientation are consistent with other studies that indicate that VE systems engender high levels of dizziness and vertigo upon post-exposure. The tangible and persistent aftereffects raise concerns for the safety and well being of VE system users and suggest that their activities should be monitored upon post exposure.