User adaptation to cybersickness in virtual reality : A qualitative study

Virtual reality has been gaining attention due to its capacity to immerse users into virtual environments. However, it has been reported that many users experience physical discomfort caused by cybersickness. Despite the increasing scholarly and practical attention paid to virtual reality, the influence of cyber- sickness on user experience is unclear, and research findings are inconsistent. Some researchers argue that cybersickness negatively influences user experience by significantly decreasing enjoyment and perceived presence, yet some studies reveal insignificant associations between cybersickness and user experience. The conflict between such results remains unsolved. Therefore, this study seeks to provide more a nuanced understanding of how users experience cybersickness. Toward this end, this research employs a qualitative approach using the interview method and derived factors associated with cyber- sickness triggers, symptoms and user adaptation. Based on the findings of this research, we propose a time-varying cybersickness model that accounts for the interplay between cybersickness triggers, symptoms, and user adaptation.