AR Fidget: Augmented Reality Experiences that Support Emotion Regulation through Fidgeting

Emotion regulation–managing one's emotional state in day-to-day life–is an important set of skills for supporting mental wellbeing. We propose to demonstrate our AR Fidget system that scaffolds emotion regulation using a combination of AR glasses and fidgeting actions. AR glasses have been used in various well-being situations for providing the person with unobtrusive and in-the-moment feedback. Meanwhile, previous studies have shown that the manipulation of soft-bodied 'fidget' objects helps people manage emotions and improve focus. This project explores whether combining fidgeting behaviors such as swiping, tapping, and clicking with supportive visual/auditory feedback on AR glasses can support emotion regulation in the moment. We will demonstrate three visual/auditory metaphors in the form of AR lenses (Lotus, Bubble, Fire) combined with suggested target fidget actions based on prior research, toward helping people to regulate anxiety, boredom, and anger.