Complex emotional experiences: theoretical significance, ways of induction and therapeutic potential

Current Psychology. 2025. Vol. 44. P. 1962–1975.

Salikova D., Kosonogov V.

This mini review explores the complex nature  of emotional experiences, extending beyond traditional emotion theories to encompass a spectrum of complex emotional states. It investigates the psychophysiological underpinnings of nuanced emotions such as awe, the sublime, and aesthetic emotions; it contains brief explanations for phenomena such as -, near-death experiences , and out-of-body experiences. A significant focus is placed on the role of emerging technologies, particularly Virtual Reality (VR), in facilitating induction of these profound emotional experiences. The immersive nature of VR offers unique avenues for inducing complex emotions, underscoring its potential for therapeutic applications. Special attention is given to the potential of VR to induce mystical experiences, particularly those resembling psychedelic effects. The review advocates for an expanded emotion research paradigm, recognizing the value of complex emotions in psychological theory and therapeutic interventions.

Keywords: emotion, psychotherapy, virtual reality

Publication based on the results of: Digital support of students’ health-saving behavior: development of a preventive program and its effectiveness evaluation (2024)