Fusing Drama Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a Virtual Reality Setting: An Innovative Strategy for Tackling Maladaptive Lifestyle Habits

Abstract

This study delves into the integration of drama therapy within cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for young people, the system built in the VR environment, with the overarching objective of boosting their health consciousness and encouraging healthier lifestyle habits. Recognizing that trillions of cells within our bodies depend on us for survival, we propose that fostering a deep reverence for these cells can lead individuals to prioritize self-care. Our suggested VR-enhanced therapy incorporates a wearable device and panoramic animations, bridging elements from the respiratory, digestive, and cardiovascular systems into a immersive art therapeutic experience. The focus of this research is to examine the potential of VR-enhanced therapy to stimulate health consciousness and improve lifestyle habits. A pilot study was carried out to gauge the impact of this integrative approach on health awareness, revealing that participants' health consciousness was heightened through immersive engagement in the therapy process using the VR headset. This study offers a novel and promising perspective on the utilization of VR technology within the realm of drama therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, underscoring its potential for significant positive influence on individuals' well-being.