An immersive experience has great potential for individuals dealing with anhedonia, providing a special chance to stimulate the senses and elicit emotional reactions that may be diminished by the condition. Unlike traditional forms of entertainment, immersive experiences can captivate participants by surrounding them with a rich sensory environment that grabs their attention and stimulates their senses.
An immersive experience can create a captivating atmosphere by using film projection, tactile fabrics, ambient lighting, and spatial audio to draw the audience into the narrative world. By experiencing these sensory cues, people with anhedonia can be pulled out of their emotional numbness and into a state of increased awareness and involvement.
I decided to create an immersive experience for my final project because I wanted to expand on my research about anhedonia and film spectatorship. I realised that traditional film formats may not be the best way to connect with people who are affected by this condition. I aimed to create an engaging and interactive experience that would deeply connect with participants and evoke a genuine response.
I wanted to provide individuals experiencing anhedonia a way to reconnect with their emotions and regain the ability to engage with their senses, which may have been affected by their condition. I aim to create an immersive environment that stimulates the senses and provides both entertainment and therapeutic benefits. Participants can experience moments of joy, wonder, and connection that they may not typically encounter in their daily lives.
My main aim is to help people with anhedonia experience art and storytelling in a way that goes beyond their condition, giving them a chance to rediscover the wonder of the world.
The decision to embrace a dark theme for my immersive experience stems from a recognition of the complex relationship between anhedonia and emotional engagement. While some might assume that individuals with anhedonia would benefit from light-hearted or uplifting content, research and observations from figures like Charlie Brooker and other film makers suggest otherwise.
Charlie Brooker, known for his creation of the dark and dystopian television series "Black Mirror," has openly discussed how his struggles with depression have influenced his work. He channels his feelings of numbness and darkness into narratives that explore the darker aspects of society and human nature. (Magazine and PLACEHOLDER, 2022) Similarly, other creatives have used their art as a means of grappling with their own mental health struggles, often delving into themes of despair, isolation, and existential angst.
For individuals with anhedonia, who may struggle to experience pleasure or find meaning in everyday activities, a dark theme can offer a sense of validation and recognition. It acknowledges the complexity of their emotions and provides an avenue for exploring the darker corners of the human experience. By confronting themes of darkness and despair head-on, the immersive experience may resonate more deeply with individuals affected by anhedonia, offering a sense of catharsis and understanding that lighter themes might not provide.
Moreover, research suggests that individuals with anhedonia may be drawn to stimuli that are mentally stimulating or emotionally provocative, as they seek to break through their emotional numbness and connect with their inner selves. Dark themes, with their emphasis on intensity, complexity, and emotional depth, may offer a more compelling and engaging experience for this audience, allowing them to delve into the depths of their own psyche and confront their innermost fears and desires
(Magazine and PLACEHOLDER, 2022) This article explores the fascinating concept that horror experiences can have positive effects on the brain. It delves into the psychology of why individuals are attracted to frightening films and how the brain reacts to stimuli that provoke fear. Engaging with horror content can actually have positive effects on cognitive functions like memory and problem-solving skills. It's similar to exercising the brain, pushing it to handle intricate feelings and circumstances. I'm really intrigued by this concept because it questions the idea that horror is always negative or harmful. On the other hand, it implies that there might be advantages to facing our fears and stepping outside of our comfort zones. This perspective brings attention to the connection between fear, entertainment, and mental well-being.
Creating horror movie posters and exploring dark subjects gives me a spectrum of feelings. These are some of my posters. These posters help me express myself creatively and explore the darker side of human nature and the brain. While producing these posters, I'm transported to a realm of terror, suspense, and tension. Artistic expression and unique emotional and experiential connection come from exploring the macabre. Working with horror themes helps me feel something despite my anhedonia, whether it's the excitement of creating a terrifying scene or eliciting viewer unease.
In choosing a dark theme for my immersive experience, I aim to create a space where individuals with anhedonia can explore the complexities of their emotions and find resonance in narratives that reflect their own inner struggles. By embracing the darkness, I hope to offer a sense of validation, understanding, and empowerment to those who may feel lost in the shadows of their own minds.
Some individuals who have anhedonia, might struggle to enjoy traditional forms of entertainment such as films. Watching a movie might not be exciting or emotional enough to hold their attention. Not being engaged can make you feel apathetic and disconnected from the story, which makes it hard to enjoy.
To tackle this, providing a more captivating, immersive, and multi-sensory experience could be advantageous. Through the development of an immersive experience, individuals with anhedonia can engage their senses in new and stimulating ways, going beyond the act of simply watching a film. This may assist in alleviating the sensations of numbness and lack of interest often linked to anhedonia.
In addition, an immersive experience provides the opportunity for a more tangible and hands-on encounter with the content, enabling participants to actively participate in the story and surroundings. Active participation can help increase emotional arousal and engagement, making the experience more fulfilling and rewarding for people with anhedonia.
While conducting research on anhedonia treatments and remedies, I came across some intriguing discoveries. Unsurprisingly, some sources proposed that individuals suffering from anhedonia might benefit from viewing a frightening film. This concept captivated my attention and incited additional investigation regarding the possible therapeutic impacts of horror films on psychological well-being. (Tree House Recovery PDX, n.d.) The website discusses the concept of triggering the fight or flight response as a potential remedy for anhedonia. It suggests that engaging in activities that evoke fear or excitement, such as watching a scary movie, can stimulate the body's fight or flight response. This physiological reaction releases adrenaline and other stress hormones, which can temporarily increase alertness, arousal, and emotional responsiveness. By triggering this response, individuals may experience a temporary alleviation of emotional blunting associated with anhedonia. However, it's essential to note that while this approach may provide short-term relief, it may not address the underlying causes of anhedonia and should be approached with caution.
According to a Sbravatti (2019) study, acoustic startle responses, which are abrupt reflexive reactions to striking auditory stimuli, may be induced by horror films. factors, including individual distinctions in personality traits and emotional states, influence these responses. Individuals diagnosed with anhedonia may encounter a diminished emotional reaction to horror films; however, these films may be able to stimulate increased physiological responses, including startle responses. While viewing horror films, these involuntary responses could help those with anhedonia experience some degree of emotional stimulation or engagement.
In this study by (Chen et al., 2021) , researchers investigated the potential therapeutic benefits of using virtual reality (VR) to expose individuals with anhedonia to positive scenes. Participants were presented with positive scenes, like nature landscapes or pleasant social interactions, in a controlled virtual reality environment. The study aimed to explore if virtual reality exposure to positive stimuli could trigger positive emotional responses and alleviate symptoms of anhedonia. Participants experienced more positive emotions and fewer symptoms of anhedonia after being exposed to positive scenes in virtual reality. These findings indicate that virtual reality experiences may be helpful for individuals with anhedonia by allowing them to engage in positive emotional experiences. Virtual reality (VR) is being used as a therapeutic tool to help individuals with anhedonia. It provides immersive experiences that can evoke emotions and engage users who have difficulty finding interest in their surroundings. VR has the ability to simulate real-world situations and offer interactive content. This can create chances for emotional engagement and connection. It may also help rewire neural pathways linked to anhedonia and enhance the feeling of pleasure. In addition, VR environments provide a secure space for people to explore various emotions and experiences, offering new and diverse stimuli that generate curiosity and drive. VR has the potential to take users to different places and offer interactive experiences, which could be a new way to tackle anhedonia and improve emotional well-being.
Dopamine land experience London
The "Dopamine Land" experience in London provides a special chance for people dealing with anhedonia to connect with their senses and possibly rediscover feelings of pleasure and excitement. This immersive experience is created to trigger the release of dopamine, the brain chemical linked to pleasure and reward, through a range of sensory experiences and interactive activities. Dopamine Land creates an immersive experience with bright colours, exciting rides, and fun challenges. Our goal is to evoke positive emotions and offer a temporary escape from the feeling of numbness that often comes with anhedonia. Dopamine Land provides a sensory-rich environment and engaging activities that can give individuals with anhedonia a much-needed break from their daily struggles. It offers an opportunity to reconnect with feelings of joy and excitement. In addition, the social aspect of the experience, like spending time with friends or family, can make it even more enjoyable and help people with anhedonia feel more connected. This can lead to a more positive and satisfying experience overall.
Frameless experience London
The Frameless experience in London offers a one-of-a-kind sensory-rich environment that could be beneficial for individuals with anhedonia. With this interactive installation, you can explore a virtual world without any physical limitations. It lets you fully engage with your surroundings in a way that goes beyond traditional boundaries. Frameless creates a captivating and continuously shifting environment to engage participants and evoke emotional responses. It aims to help individuals with anhedonia reconnect with their feelings and experiences. Frameless uses advanced technology like virtual reality headsets and spatial audio systems to create an immersive experience. Participants are encouraged to interact with their environment, which can trigger positive emotions and a sense of excitement and wonder. Being able to freely explore and interact with the virtual world without any restrictions can give individuals with anhedonia a fresh outlook and a much-needed break from the dullness of daily life. It allows them to momentarily escape their symptoms and find happiness and involvement once again.
The Van Gogh Experience in London immerses visitors in the life and work of the famous artist. Digital technology immerses visitors in Van Gogh's bright universe, allowing them to experience his masterpieces in a multi-sensory way. Its high-resolution projections, spatial audio, and interactive features create an emotionally moving experience. The experience aims to link users to Van Gogh and his work by immersing them in his world's sights and sounds. The Van Gogh see may allow anhedoniacs to see art in a new way. Participants can experience Van Gogh's paintings in a unique way via immersive technology, which may inspire amazement and emotion. By giving a rich and immersive artistic experience, the Van Gogh Experience may help anhedonia sufferers appreciate art's beauty and power, providing comfort and excitement.
References
Magazine, S. and PLACEHOLDER, R.A. (2022). Can Experiencing Horror Help Your Brain? [online] Smithsonian Magazine. Available at: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/can-experiencing-horror-help-your-brain-180980984/.
Tree House Recovery PDX. (n.d.). Emotional Flatlining: How to Deal with Anhedonia. [online] Available at: https://treehouserecoverypdx.com/emotional-flatlining-how-to-deal-with-anhedonia-3/.
Sbravatti, Valerio. (2019). Acoustic Startles in Horror Films: A Neurofilmological Approach. Projections. 13. 45-66. 10.3167/proj.2019.130104.
Chen, K., Barnes-Horowitz, N., Treanor, M., Sun, M., Young, K.S. and Craske, M.G. (2021). Virtual Reality Reward Training for Anhedonia: A Pilot Study. Frontiers in Psychology, 11. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.613617.