Virtual reality headsets could put children's health at risk

Virtual reality headsets have become extremely popular in today’s technologically advanced world. These VR headsets have practical applications in various industries but they are also widely used as recreational gaming tools.

Unfortunately, various studies have highlighted that VR headsets could pose a significant health risk, particularly to young children. In terms of age restrictions, Oculus Rift and Samsung’s Gear VR headsets both carry 13 age recommendations, while Sony’s PlayStation VR is deemed suitable for children aged 12 and HTC’s Vive is not designed for children at all. In fact, HTC have stated that young children should not be allowed to use their headsets. However, as we all know, age restrictions do not completely limit children’s access to this technology. If an older child or parent owns a VR headset then younger children will naturally be curious about these devices and find a way to play with them.

So what are the health risks? A Leeds research team run by human performance research expert Faisal Mushtaq tested 20 children (aged between 8 and 12) who then played a 20 minute VR game. After playing the game the children were tested again. Researchers found that, even though no child experienced a significant deterioration in health, the stereo-acuity (i.e. the ability to detect differences in distances) of two children was disrupted and one child demonstrated a ‘drastic worsening’ of balance after finishing the game.

All of these effects were short-term but noticeable. These results are especially worrying when you consider that the children only played a 20 minute game. In reality, children can often be immersed within these games for an hour or longer.

If you take a look at a VR device, a three dimensional world is being displayed on a two dimensional screen. The very act of experiencing this process puts unnecessary strain on the eyesight of any person. Children who are exposed to VR technology for longer periods of time can often experience sore eyes and headaches. Even though the long term health consequences of using VR headsets remain unknown, it is clear that they pose a significant health risk to children and young adults whose brains are still developing.

Alongside the physical health risks of VR technology, these headsets are also in a position to cause psychological damage. For example, the age restrictions imposed on VR headsets means that many of the games are intended for adults. As such, children who gain access to VR games can be exposed to a wide range of inappropriate content via these devices. Due to the realistic nature of the visuals presented by VR technology, the lasting psychological impact of playing these games can be more severe.

Due to their age and lack of experience, many children do not have a clear understanding on how to interact with the digital world and stay away from sources of danger. As such, parents must remain vigilant and play a key role in how their children interact with these new technologies.

According to an XXXBios article the VR industry is expected to generate $110 billion in revenue within the next decade. Given the ever-expanding nature of the VR industry, parents need to act now to safeguard their children’s welfare. Parents will need to be aware of all the potential risks that their little ones will have to face and limit their children’s exposure to these devices accordingly. By learning more about VR technology, parents can closely monitor the activities of their little ones, address any potential health problems and in so doing protect both their physical development and mental welfare.