In the summer of 2007, I began to investigate therapeutic initiatives in Second Life. To my surprise, the virtual world was alive with organic support groups and unique therapeutic opportunities. I was instantly drawn to explore these communities and why so many users flocked to receive support in this unconventional space.

I spent a year investigating these sites and subsequently wrote my honors thesis titled Therapy and The Metaverse: Second Life and The Changing Conditions of Therapy For Convalescent and Chronically Ill Users.

The journey was moving and opened my eyes to the needs of so many under served in our world. Based on my research, I am confident that virtual worlds will provide an improved quality of life for generations of disabled, convalescent and chronically ill users through use of a conventional PC.

A professionally edited article based on the thesis was published this month in Washington University Undergraduate Research Digest.

Click Here to download a free copy of the article Therapy and Metaverse.

Abstract:
This study examines the therapeutic utility of 3D Massively Multi-User Virtual Environments (MMVE’s), specifically Second Life, for convalescent and chronically ill users. Three major therapy related simulations within Second Life are examined: Dreams, a space for people with autism and neurological conditions; the Heron Sanctuary, a disability haven; and Wheelies, a disability themed nightclub. Since this is an abridged version of my study, only one of the five case studies will be examined as a representative account of virtual therapy. Two main results surfaced through examining the three spaces and their users: a new form of complimentary therapy and a relationship between ‘virtual’ and ‘real’ well-being has been established. The first point explores how virtual worlds provide therapy forms outside of traditional and formalized setting with a medical professional or facilitator. The second point considers how virtual activities and therapies intersect with ‘real’ physical and emotional reactions. This research sheds light on a new frontier of therapeutic activities that facilitate a psychological and physical rehabilitative process through the social virtual environment Second Life.

To see the full journal, Click Here.