Feelings of presence and perceived social support in social virtual reality platforms

Social virtual reality (social VR) platforms are gaining popularity among users. Previous qualitative research suggests that feelings of presence can make these an attractive environment to obtain social support from others. Building on exploratory insights, we carried out a quantitative study illuminate how different types in VR facilitate support. The results large survey conducted users ( N = 1231) show and self-presence predictors perceived this perception is positively associated with users' subjective well-being. Perceived greater for women than men, it differs across platforms, although small effect sizes. These underline the role computer-mediated support, suggesting affordances particularly well-suited medium facilitating beneficial interactions • Feelings predict platforms. has indirect association men. suggest immersive media may involve benefits