THE IMPACT OF VIRTUAL REALITY-ENHANCED PHYSICAL EDUCATION HOMEWORK ON MOVEMENT IMMERSION, PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS, AND NEUROLOGICAL ENGAGEMENT IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract Objectives Adolescents face significant psychological stress, impacting mental well-being. Physical activity is known to mitigate stress and support neurodevelopment. However, traditional physical education (PE) homework often fails to sustain engagement, missing an opportunity to bolster mental health. This study investigates if Virtual Reality (VR) technology in PE homework can enhance movement immersion—a flow state linked to stress reduction—and promote neurological engagement. Methods In a quasi-experimental study, 120 middle school students were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 60) completing a 4-week VR-based PE homework program, or a control group (n = 60) following standard routines. Assessments pre- and post-intervention included the Flow State Scale (FSS) for immersion and a stress rating scale. VR platform data tracked behavioral engagement (duration, consistency). Results The experimental group demonstrated significantly higher FSS scores post-intervention, indicating deeper concentration and enjoyment, core to flow theory and stress management. VR data confirmed longer, more consistent activity, suggesting enhanced adherence. The control group showed no significant changes. These findings imply VR-induced immersion may positively affect neural circuits for reward and motivation. Conclusions VR technology effectively boosts psychological immersion in PE homework, correlating with reduced perceived stress and improved neurological engagement. This approach transforms homework into a potential tool for supporting adolescent mental health by fostering intrinsic motivation and consistent physical activity, crucial for long-term psychological and neurodevelopmental well-being. Acknowledgment This research was supported by 2024 Bohai University Joint Research Project on Primary and Secondary Education Teaching Reform (Project Number: 2024ZXXJG55).