Spatiality of virtual reality: a phenomenological perspective on body–space relations in VR
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This paper examines how spatiality is constructed and experienced in virtual reality (VR). While VR is increasingly adopted for education, training, and entertainment, we still know little about the spatial contexts that shape these social processes. Geographical inquiries are needed to better conceptualize virtual space and how such technologically mediated spatiality comes about. Addressing this gap, this paper uses Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenological concepts to analyse empirical observations of users interacting with a VR training platform. By centralizing the body as the medium through which virtual spatiality is constructed, this paper advances geographical debates on virtual space. The findings illustrate that users rely on embodied actions, such as habitual orientation and perceptual faith, to make sense of virtual spaces. However, VR technology also challenges the way users navigate these spaces, as it requires them to continually negotiate their sense of presence. Subsequently, users must employ imaginative perception and bodily habits to sustain virtual spaces. This paper illustrates how virtual space emerges from these ongoing interactions between technology and embodied experience. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for spatial theory and phenomenological methodology in digital geography.
Source: Social & Cultural Geography
Author: Roosa Wingström
Institution: University of Vaasa
Language: English
Subfield: Human-Computer Interaction
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7223154377