Young skeptics: exploring the perceptions of virtual worlds and the metaverse in generations Y and Z

• DOI: 10.3389/frvir.2024.1330358
• Publication Date: 2024-04-17T12:17:24Z
• Authors: Oliver Korn; Matteo Zallio; Benjamin Schnitzer
• Keywords: Metaverse; Skepticism; Safeguarding; Social worlds; Virtual world

The Metaverse, a transformation of the internet by XR-technologies progressively blending digital and physical world, is already changing our social structures. success VR-headsets like Quest has made both virtual worlds “metaverse” ubiquitous. This technological evolution yields potential to fundamentally change way we communicate, live, work together. At same time, perceptions how these affect lives differ considerably. To that end, this study investigates 115 younger people from generations Y Z, “power users” worlds. In addition, it differences in perception between non-academics academics. We looked at perceived knowledge, preferred usage scenarios, interaction with avatars embodiment, problems challenges, personal worries, solutions for safeguarding, institutions drive safeguarding. While generation Z are often aligned, major finding cases they differ, more skeptical. Likewise, skeptical than Finally, found related gender provide possible explanations recommended actions.