Neurophysiological correlates of visually induced motion sickness severity: A scoping review of the impact of experimental settings on EEG spectral power

Abstract

Visually induced motion sickness (VIMS) is characterized by symptoms such as nausea, disorientation, and oculomotor discomfort, arising from a visually induced illusionary sense of self-motion. Although previous studies have produced inconsistent spectral findings, particularly in the alpha band, electroencephalogram (EEG) offers high temporal resolution for objectively assessing VIMS. This scoping review synthesizes 28 studies to investigate the sources of this heterogeneity, focusing on the impact of experimental settings (inducing scenarios and presentation equipment) on EEG outcomes. By categorizing studies into abstract motion cues, virtual scene videos, vehicle driving, and gaming scenes, we reveal distinct neurophysiological patterns. Results indicate that while an increase in delta and theta band activities serves as a consistent correlate of sensory conflict, alpha band activity exhibits context-dependent divergence: predominantly increasing in passive viewing scenarios but decreasing in active tasks. Furthermore, head-mounted displays were more frequently associated with alpha enhancement compared to monitors, likely due to higher immersion and spatial orientation demands. This review clarifies these method-dependent variations and offers practical recommendations for selecting experimental scenarios and parameters to improve the reliability of VIMS assessment.

Keywords

electroencephalogram / frequency characteristics / visually induced motion sickness

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