Recent Publications

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Abstract: A negative body image can have an impact on developing and maintaining obesity. Using virtual reality (VR) to conduct cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an innovative approach to treat people with obesity. This multicenter non-randomized pilot study examined the feasibility and the effect on eating behavior and body perception of a newly developed VR system to conduct body image exercises.

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Abstract: Intelligent Voice Assistants (IVAs) have become integral to many users' daily lives, using advanced algorithms to automate various tasks. Nevertheless, many users do not understand the underlying algorithms and how they work, posing potential risks to the competent and self-determined use of IVAs. This work develops three online training modules to promote algorithm awareness, providing (1) basic knowledge of algorithms, (2) risks posed by algorithms in IVAs, and (3) scientific evidence on algorithm aversion. A total of 110 participants were studied to analyze the training effects on various perception levels relevant to IVAs, including usage perception (attitude, exploration), privacy aspects (trustworthiness, privacy control), persuasion aspects (persuasion knowledge, anthropomorphic perception), and self-determined interaction variables (reflection, indulgence). The results show that the modules increase awareness of IVA algorithms, influence user perceptions (e.g., higher exploration intentions), and promote critical engagement with IVAs (e.g., lower trustworthiness). Moreover, the modules contribute to a higher sense of privacy control, reduce persuasive perceptions of IVAs (e.g., anthropomorphic perception), and promote self-determined interaction (e.g., higher indulgent use). The modules offer a new approach to promoting the competent use of IVAs in society and provide a starting point for further research and educational institutions to increase algorithm awareness for IVAs and other AI-based systems.

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Abstract: Background High emotional arousal (EA) is a core feature of borderline personality disorder (BPD). While virtual reality (VR) has shown promise in treating emotion-based disorders, research on VR applications for BPD remains limited, especially in adolescence. This study aimed to validate a novel VR-based aVeRsive tension paradigm for assessing EA in adolescents and young adults with BPD symptoms. Methods In a multimodal study, we investigated the validity of aVeRsive tension: We surveyed 62 patients with BPD symptoms and 62 healthy controls (HC) aged 13–25 years who completed two VR sessions (stress/control condition). Each session included an adapted Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) followed by a cyberball paradigm. Subjective EA ratings and physiological measurements were taken during the sessions. Results The BPD group showed significantly higher EA levels compared to HC across both conditions. While both groups exhibited peak EA after TSST, HC demonstrated EA reduction during Cyberball in both conditions. The BPD group maintained elevated EA levels in the stress condition. Physiological data partially supported these findings, with the BPD group showing higher heart rates, particularly during Cyberball in the stress condition. Discussion The aVeRsive tension paradigm successfully discriminated between BPD and HC groups, capturing both subjective and physiological responses. The sustained EA in the BPD group during stress conditions aligns with characteristic emotion dysregulation patterns. While task-specific effects were observed, with TSST eliciting stronger responses than Cyberball, the paradigm effectively simulated real-life stressors in a controlled VR environment. Conclusion This study validates the aVeRsive tension protocol as a promising tool for assessing EA in adolescents and young adults with BPD symptoms. The VR-based approach offers advantages in experimental control and ecological validity, showing potential for both diagnostic assessment and therapeutic intervention in clinical settings.