The Impact of Virtual Reality Mindfulness on Self-Reported Emotional Well-Being in Secure Juvenile Rehabilitation Facilities: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• In Event: Exploring 'victims', 'offenders', 'exploitation' and 'rehabilitation' in contemporary juvenile justice

Abstract

Mindfulness-based interventions are gaining attention for improving emotional regulation and reducing aggression, with research highlighting benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved self-regulation, and lower stress. However, traditional mindfulness programs often struggle with engagement, particularly among justice-involved adolescents who face attention difficulties, skepticism, or low motivation.
Virtual Reality (VR) mindfulness offers a unique solution by creating an immersive and interactive environment that increases engagement and supports sustained participation in mindfulness practices. Growing research indicates its effectiveness in reducing stress, enhancing emotional regulation, and improving overall well-being. However, studies in this field remain limited, often lacking control groups, relying on small samples, and focusing primarily on adults rather than adolescents.
This study evaluates the efficacy of VR-based mindfulness training as an accessible and engaging intervention for youth in correctional facilities. Using a randomized controlled trial (RCT), we examine its impact on emotional regulation among youth in alternative sentencing programs.
Forty-eight Jewish and Arab participants were randomly assigned to a VR mindfulness session or a control group. The intervention took place twice weekly for four weeks. Participants completed validated self-report questionnaires at baseline, mid-intervention, and post-intervention. Additionally, the treatment group completed pre- and post-session assessments at each time point.
Preliminary findings from the first completed facility suggest a reduction in self-reported anger and an increase in relaxation and mindfulness following VR sessions. Final analysis, including full statistical comparisons, will be available by May 2025.
This study contributes to the growing but methodologically limited field of VR-based mindfulness interventions, offering one of the first controlled, multi-session evaluations in alternative sentencing settings. The findings hold significant potential for shaping future applications of VR in rehabilitation programs, particularly as a tool to enhance engagement and persistence in mindfulness practices among at-risk youth in alternative sentencing and diversion programs.

Authors

• Hagit Mercedes Sabo-Brants, Western Galilee College, Israel

• Brad Bushman, The Ohio State University

• Barak Ariel, Cambridge University

• Elisa Cavatorta, King's College London

• Matthew Bland, Cambridge University

• Olav Krigolson, University of Victoria