Members of the ISMiR team wearing VR headsets in front of the VCC building.
Copyright: Johannes Zagermann, University of Konstanz

ISMiR

The influence of interoceptive signalling on self-other perception, sensorimotor and physiological synchrony, and behaviour in social interactions within mixed reality spaces

Accurate prediction, detection, and interpretation of interoceptive cues is fundamental for human cognition and interaction. This interdisciplinary project aims at developing human-computer interfaces that digitally present interoceptive signals and testing their effects in collaborative settings across mixed reality environments – either to compensate for reduced bodily signals in computer mediated settings or to enhance hidden signals in natural settings.

We hypothesize that such augmentations will improve interoceptive inferences, enabling a more accurate identification of mental states, and foster synchronization and social interaction. To transfer this to a more applied context, we will adjust the developed interfaces to entrain interpersonal interoceptive synchronization and enhance interspecies empathic and pro-environmental sentiments.

The results will contribute to understanding the role of interoception in cooperation and inform the design of future interactive technologies.

Experimental paradigm: interoceptive cues interfaced in the VR headset.
Copyright: Nack Srismith