Leveraging virtual reality to study risk preference and impulsivity: Insights from a dual scoping review

Risk preference and impulsivity are fundamental constructs in psychological science, widely studied for their potential to predict financial, clinical, and legal outcomes. However, established measures often show low convergence, raising concerns about the processes they capture, and, more broadly, the nature of the constructs. By immersing individuals in ecologically relevant environments, virtual reality (VR) has the potential to address limitations of traditional measures. However, the status of VR research in this field remains unclear, with limited insight into its challenges. In this preregistered study, we conducted systematic literature searches in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and PsycINFO to scope the evolving landscape of VR research into risk preference and impulsivity. We systematically extracted information on study samples (e.g., sample size, age, gender, geography), measurement (sub)domains, methodological rigor (e.g., hypothesis formulation, power analyses), and open science practices. The review process adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines throughout. For the 105 included primary studies, we observed small sample sizes (median = 74.5 for risk and 56.5 for impulsivity). Across constructs, gender representation was balanced, but younger participants dominated, with limited inclusion of older adults. Critically, we found common and distinct domains for risk and impulsivity-related VR paradigms, and noticed an exploration of domains not typically addressed by traditional measures (e.g., evacuation scenarios). Improvements are needed in justifying small samples, adopting open science practices, and systematically assessing technology-specific aspects such as immersion and motion sickness. We provide concrete recommendations for improving the reliability, generalizability, and ultimately realizing the full potential of VR for psychological science.