Immersive technologies and intergroup relations: A critical review of theoretical questions and methodological challenges

Immersive technologies, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other forms of extended realities (XR) are increasingly adopted to study and improve intergroup relations. However, evidence of their effectiveness is mixed, highlighting the need for stronger theoretical integration and greater methodological rigor. This critical review seeks to address the key theoretical questions and methodological challenges facing the field. Theoretically, research must first clarify the psychological mechanisms through which immersive interventions influence intergroup outcomes. A second question concerns the durability and generalizability of these effects. While some interventions yield lasting improvements and transfer to other contexts, others show rapid decay. A third issue is the potential for backfire, as immersive experiences may at times reinforce rather than reduce bias. Understanding when, why, and for whom immersive interventions succeed or fail is therefore crucial. Methodologically, current evidence is limited by overreliance on self-reports and the lack of methodological frameworks. Comparative studies with traditional interventions show promise but yield inconsistent results, highlighting the importance of assessing the added value of immersive formats. Progress also depends on greater transparency and replicability, as their absence hinders cumulative knowledge building. Moreover, researchers should exploit the full potential of immersive environments for multimodal assessment. By critically addressing current limitations and boundary conditions, as well as emerging trends and underexplored strategies to improve intergroup relations using immersive technologies, we set the stage for future work that is theoretically integrated, methodologically rigorous, and capable of delivering scalable, ethical, and impactful interventions.