Do individual constraints induce flexibility of visual field dependence following a virtual immersion? Effects of perceptive style and cybersickness

• Fantin Luca
• Ceyte Gwenaelle
• Maïni Elodie
• Hossu Gabriela
• Ceyte Hadrien

• Field dependence
• Perceptive style
• Virtual reality
• Cybersickness
• Virtual immersion
• Visual cues

Accurately perceiving the gravitational direction is key to successful interaction in our terrestrial environment. In this context field dependence (FD), the importance given to static and/or dynamic visual cues has largely been discussed. Although first considered a trait, several studies suggest FD be flexible in response to postural or visual contexts and to poor virtual reality user experience. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the influence of a disruptive virtual immersion on the level of static and dynamic FD. Forty-five participants were exposed to a virtual maritime environment for up to 14 min. Cybersickness and sense of presence were measured. Before and after virtual immersion, the rod and frame test and the rod and disk test were performed to assess static and dynamic FD, respectively. We demonstrated a significant decrease in both levels of FD after immersion in initially more dependent participants. Decrease in static FD was explained by high initial static FD and severe cybersickness, while decrease in dynamic FD was only explained by the initial level of dynamic FD. In this study, we provide evidence confirming FD flexibility, likely reflecting an adaptation process to environmental or individual-related constraints. Yet, static and dynamic FD seems to rely on separate mechanisms, highlighting the necessity to specify which characteristic of visual information (static or dynamic) individuals depend on when assessing their FD. Our results question the reliability of virtual reality for perceptive or motor diagnoses without considering its consequences, specifically in vulnerable populations such as the elderly.