Altered States of Consciousness in Human-Computer Interaction: A Review
S. Jung, Oğuz Buruk, Juho Hamari
Nordic Conference on Human-Computer Interaction October 8, 2022 DOI: 10.1145/3546155.3546667 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Scoping review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Altered states of consciousness |
| Key findings | HCI studies on ASC artefacts have mainly explored psychologically induced ASCs using XR and embodied interaction, with physical artefact design and game/play approaches as promising future directions. |
Abstract
There has been increasing interest shown in experiences such as lucid dreams, hallucinations, or awe that arise in HCI. Altered States of Consciousness (ASC) is the umbrella term for these experiences, yet it has been subject to fragmented study, and design knowledge to help individuals working on technology-driven ASCs is lacking. This paper investigates HCI studies involving ASC artefacts through a scoping review. The findings relate to (1) ASC induction methods, (2) ASC experiences through artefacts, (3) ASC artefacts, and (4) the technology of ASC artefacts. The returned literature shows that HCI studies have mainly explored psychologically induced ASCs, and XR technologies and embodied interaction are widely used in ASC research. Meanwhile, physical artefact design including active body movements and the integration of games and play approaches featured as prospective directions. These results will contribute to the knowledge of those studying and designing ASC artefacts.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on altered states of consciousness, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Subjective Effects of Psychedelics Are Necessary for Their Enduring Therapeutic Effects. | 2020 | Review | |
| Psychobiology of Altered States of Consciousness. | 2005 | Review | |
| Intrinsic Brain Activity in Altered States of Consciousness | 2008 | Review | |
| Dynamic functional connectivity and brain metastability during altered states of consciousness | 2017 | Review | |
| A default mode of brain function in altered states of consciousness. | 2013 | Review |
Citations in the library
Cited by 8
- Quantifying the Pollan Effect: Investigating the Impact of Emerging Psychiatric Interventions on Online Mental Health Discourse May 11, 2024
- Measuring Altered States of Consciousness in Virtual Reality: A Systematic Analysis of Assessment Methods HCI International 2025 – Late Breaking Papers 2026
- Inducing selflessness through a numadelic virtual reality experience: a preliminary study Virtual Reality December 21, 2025
- Immersive Virtual Reality Gameplay Alters Embodiment, Time Perception, and States of Consciousness Virtual Worlds June 25, 2026
- Sociotechnical Imaginaries of Digitally Altered Minds in 2050: Functions, Citizens, and Societal Tensions International Conference on Entertainment and Media in the Ubiquitous Era October 7, 2025
and 3 more in the library
Cites 17
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- Future directions in meditation research: Recommendations for expanding the field of contemplative science PLoS One November 7, 2018
and 12 more in the library