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Can virtual reality change attitudes toward homelessness?

Nicole Spohn Almeida

October 3, 2025

Homelessness still carries a stigma. But could virtual reality help shift people's attitudes? Initial results from a project at Stanford University in California are promising.

https://p.dw.com/p/51SBD

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View of a man and a woman wearing virtual reality devices at a UN meeting

View of a man and a woman wearing virtual reality devices at a UN meeting

Virtual peacekeeping: Empathy in action

Virtual peacekeeping: Empathy in action

With VR, we accompany UN peacekeepers to South Sudan. Could a VR presentation like this also help politicians make decisions on the future of the mission?

Two mountain gorillas in their natural habitat

Two mountain gorillas in their natural habitat

Saving nature through virtual reality

Saving nature through virtual reality

A visit to the mountain gorillas, thanks to VR: Technology is making the lives of threatened species more tangible. Environmental groups can use immersive images to raise awareness and funds for endangered species.

Young woman wearing a virtual reality device on her head, standing in front of a dark background

Young woman wearing a virtual reality device on her head, standing in front of a dark background

Virtual Reality: The medium for big emotions?

Virtual Reality: The medium for big emotions?

Studies show VR can move users to tears and inspire greater empathy than traditional television. Is VR the ideal medium for big emotions? And who stands to benefit from this?