The Trier Social Stress Test ( TSST ) is a classic and standard experimental setup for the induction of stress. Our virtual version of it, vTSST, address two major difficulties in performing studies using the TSST paradigm: consistent non-emotional delivery and requiring 3, ideally non-student aged, confederates.
It’s hard not to have empathy for the participant during this stressful situation, but that is exactly what the study’s design hinges on for maximal effectiveness. Our Virtual Confederates can play this roll to perfection, every time. Expressions are set a priori and will not change. Vocal delivery is performed outside of the situation, allowing non-emotional delivery.
The appearance and age of the Virtual Confederates can be selected as desired. Using the typical cover of presenting to a potential employer, we have selected a professional group in the standard setup.
Features
Adaptable Virtual Human appearance
Select from an included set of Virtual Humans to match your need or get customized Virtual Humans.
Triggerable response
vTSST uses a Wizard of Oz paradigm to control the responses of the Virtual Confederates. The experimenter controls when and what responses are given and by which Virtual Confederate. Use the included set of responses, or get your customized response include.
Recording
vTSST has a built in recording capability. It can record from a webcam, the view of the participant or both.
Requirements
vTSST requires a 6-DOF tracked HMD and appropriate PC to run. Exact PC requirements are dependent on the HMD being used. Please consult the requirements for the HMD. Our software will run on the minimum setup. In order to record the participant, an attached webcam is required.
vTSST is also available for standalone VR headsets without the integrated recording option.
Customize
Need a change to the setup? Need to integrate sensors
Contact us to see if we can deliver what you need.
Licensing
For licensing information please use the contact form. If you desire a custom adaptation, please provide as much detail as possible.