This study investigates how 2d and 360 degree VR videos affect emotions

The present thesis constitutes an experimental examination of the effects of two-dimensional (2D) and 360-degree virtual reality (VR) video content on individuals' emotional states. A total of four videos, selected from YouTube and YouTube VR platforms, were utilised in the study. The videos were structured to evoke different emotional responses, such as calmness and excitement, in the viewers. Participants were exposed to the 2D content through an LED screen, while the 360-degree videos were viewed using VR goggles. Emotional reactions were then measured using an EEG device (the NeuroSky Mindwave Mobile 2) and the resulting data was analysed to identify emotional states such as attention, relaxation, stress and excitement. The study was conducted using a quasi-experimental design, with participants evaluated according to gender and video type. The findings demonstrated that 360-degree VR videos elicited heightened high-arousal emotions, such as attention, excitement, and happiness, while concomitantly suppressing negative emotions, including stress, sadness, and anger. Conversely, 2D videos were found to be more associated with introspective reflection and relaxation, and triggered low-intensity emotions. Further gender-based analyses revealed that female participants exhibited an increase in delta and theta waves during the 360-degree videos, suggesting heightened relaxation and imagination. Conversely, male participants exhibited heightened levels of attention and cognitive arousal, as evidenced by an increase in beta and gamma waves. Of particular interest was the finding that 360-degree videos depicting train journeys were found to significantly increase levels of attention and excitement, while concomitantly reducing anger and stress levels. Consequently, it was determined that the video format exerts a substantial influence on emotional states. The study found that 360-degree VR videos were more effective in triggering high-intensity emotions, while 2D videos offered a more calming effect. These findings have significant implications for a wide range of applications, including content design in fields such as education, advertising, digital media and therapy.