Approach-Avoidance Bias in Virtual and Real-World Simulations: Insights from a Systematic Review of Experimental Setups.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Approach and avoidance bias (AAB) describes automatic behavioral tendencies to react toward environmental stimuli regarding their emotional valence. Traditional setups have provided evidence but often lack ecological validity. The study of the AAB in naturalistic contexts has recently increased, revealing significant methodological challenges. This systematic review evaluates the use of virtual reality (VR) and real-world setups to study the AAB, summarizing methodological innovations and challenges.

Methods

We systematically reviewed peer-reviewed articles employing VR and real-world setups to investigate the AAB. We analyzed experimental designs, stimuli, response metrics, and technical aspects to assess their alignment with research objectives and identify limi

SUBMITTER: Grasso-Cladera A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11852960 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature