Science Nation: Virtual Self
As the fascination and passion for avatars increases, researchers are investigating the influence of virtual world characters on “real world” lives. For example, if an avatar starts jogging to get into shape and begins to look thinner, how might that influence an individual’s desire to exercise or lose weight in the real world? With support from the National Science Foundation, Jeremy Bailenson is researching the power of avatars on the bodies and minds through a number of studies at Stanford University's Virtual Human Interaction Lab.
Media Details
Runtime: 2 minutes 33 seconds
- Topic: Counseling and Self-Help, Technology
- Subtopic: Computer Software, Computers, Human Behavior, Psychology
- Grade/Interest Level: 10 - 12
- Standards:
- Release Year: 2009
- Producer/Distributor: National Science Foundation
- Series: Science Nation
- Report a Problem
Related Media

Science Nation: Doppler on Wheels--The Biggest 'Dish' on the Road

Science Nation: Testing the Waters--1,4-Dioxane in North Carolina's Cape Fear River Basin

Science Nation: Hydraulic Fracturing--Using Scientific Methods to Evaluate Trade-Offs

Science Nation: Giving Robots and Prostheses the Human Touch

Science Nation: CASA Radar Tracks Tornadoes

Science Nation: Biophotonics Poised to Make Major Breakthroughs in Medicine

Science Nation: Off the Water Grid--Energy Efficient and Sustainable

Science Nation: Could a "Thinking Cap" Help Us Learn?

Science Nation: Arctic Soils Key to Future Climate

Science Nation: Hunting for the WIMPS of the Universe