Dissertation Title: Interoceptive Interventions: Interfacing with Inner States

Abstract:

This thesis explores the emerging frontier of human-computer interaction that moves beyond traditional interfaces to directly modulate internal bodily processes, emotions, and cognitive states. As HCI progresses towards further integration between human and machine, this thesis investigate novel technologies that interface with interoceptive systems to influence subjective experiences and mental states. In this thesis, I introduce "Interoceptive Interventions" — tools designed to modulate physiological states. These tools interface with and alter internal physiological conditions, thereby influencing emotional and behavioral states. I present three individual proof-of-concept wearable prototypes, “Frisson”, “ReCode”, and “Somnia” - grounded in neuroscience theories and evidence from embodied cognition. Frisson is a system targeted to elicit aesthetic chills and their cognitive downstream effects. I showcase experimental evidence of chills' impact in modulation of emotional state, negative beliefs and amelioration of anhedonia in depression. Next, I present ReCode, a system which modulates baroreceptor activity and causally influences sympathetic activity (fight or flight response) and has consequential effect on perceived emotion and anxiety ratings. Finally, I present Somnia, a system which stimulates the vestibular system to influence sleep onset. These prototypes target specific pathways to enable on-demand emotion elicitation, emotion regulation and sleep regulation for users, while also providing potential non-pharmacological interventions for conditions like insomnia, depression, and anxiety. 

This thesis aims to make a twofold contribution: First, it introduces a conceptual framework that highlights how interfacing with unconscious bodily processes opens up new possibilities for human-computer interface design. Specifically, by gently actuating core physiological dynamics linked to consciousness and psychology, there is potential for such tools to deliver a promising new paradigm for digital wellness interventions. Second, the interoceptive modulation tools developed in this work provide a platform for researchers to experimentally engineer physiological processes underlying emotions and sleep. This could allow examining causative pathways between physiology and psychology beyond correlational observations and developing interventions for affective/sleep disorders. Researchers and designers can build on this to advance a generation of augmented technologies that empower users to self-regulate the body and the mind.

Committee members:
Dr. Pattie Maes
Germeshausen Professor of Media Technology
Director, Fluid Interfaces Group, MIT Media Lab

Dr. Joseph Paradiso
Alexander W Dreyfoos (1954) Professor of Media Arts and Sciences
Director, Responsive Environments Group, MIT Media Lab

Dr. Robert Stickgold 
Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School 
Founder and Ex-Director, Center for Sleep and Cognition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center