Working with Neurons Inc, BaDoinkVR recently conducted a pilot study that evaluated how the brain responds to BaDoinkVR’s 3D virtual reality videos, both biologically and psychologically. With a deeper understanding of these cognitive responses, BaDoinkVR is building foundations for the next generation of virtual reality porn, pushing the limits of immersion across physical and emotional sensations.
The study enlisted a group of participants to watch the same adult video in two different formats; on a 2D flat screen, as well as in 3D virtual reality. During this exercise, brain wave activity was measured using an EEG (electroencephalograph) system to measure brain responses, which included cognitive load (level of mental processing), motivation (level of interest), and arousal (level of excitement). By comparing the measurements from the 3D to 2D experience, the neuroscientist’s at Neurons Inc. were able to identify key findings that gave insight into how people engage with virtual reality environments.
Moreover, they also discovered key moments in the video’s that elicited strong emotional responses, both positive and negative, subjectively speaking.
Key Findings
• The ability to look around freely within the 3D environment increases arousal and excitement. Interactivity within the virtual 3D environment intensifies the emotional experience and generates a high sense of engagement and appeal.
• Participants experienced a significantly higher level of mental processing with 3D virtual reality compared to 2D traditional porn on a PC.
• Participants have a peak in arousal at the beginning of the video right before the performer takes off her clothes. There is a rise in excitement in anticipation of the performer disrobing.
• One of the highest peaks in arousal and excitement is the first moment when the performer has penetration. In the context of the entire video, this is one of the most intense moments.
• Making eye contact with the female actress resulted in a rise in arousal and motivation.
• Witnessing the performer enjoy herself generates a high level of engagement. Participants have a high level of empathy and increased excitement when she screams (orgasms).
• There is a steady increase in arousal as the performers build to the final orgasm at the end of the video. Ejaculation yields the most intense and enjoyable experience, as well as proved to be the most crucial moment in the video.
• Choking sounds during oral sex yields a negative response, participants found it unappealing. In general, oral sex yields the most neutral response.
• Surprisingly, there is a peak in emotional intensity (arousal) when the performer touches her hair during oral sex in the VR environment from a POV perspective.
• Participants who experience VR for the first time have a much higher brain activity (cognitive load). Conversely, participants who had prior virtual reality experience have a lower cognitive load.
• Individuals can respond differently to the same scene. When the performers body is close to the camera it elicits a strong emotional response; some positive, some negative. Experienced users tend to like it while novice users find it more threatening.
