Calmavisio: Visualizing Abstract Anxiety Through 360° Symbolic Animation-Based Exposure Therapy

Benny Rahmawan Noviadji; I Nyoman Artayasa; A.A. Gde Bagus Udayana; I Wayan Swandi

doi:10.55927/ijis.v4i12.795

Authors

Benny Rahmawan Noviadji Indonesian Institute of the Arts Bali
I Nyoman Artayasa Indonesian Institute of the Arts Bali
A.A. Gde Bagus Udayana Indonesian Institute of the Arts Bali
I Wayan Swandi Indonesian Institute of the Arts Bali

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/ijis.v4i12.795

Keywords:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Symbolic Exposure Therapy, 360° Animation, Immersive Media, Art-Based Therapeutic Intervention

Abstract

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by diffuse, abstract, and non-object-specific anxiety, presenting significant challenges for conventional exposure-based therapies that depend on identifiable fear stimuli. This study proposes Calmavisio, a symbolic exposure therapy model utilizing 360° cinematic animation to visualize abstract anxiety experiences in a psychologically safe and immersive environment. Adopting a descriptive qualitative and practice-based research methodology, the study integrates principles from cognitive behavioral therapy, symbolic psychology, visual semiotics, and aesthetic theory. The creative process is structured through the INSPIRA model and realized using the AURA production method, resulting in a 360° animated experience composed of three therapeutic stages: symbolic exposure, response awareness, and recovery. The findings indicate that symbolic and surreal visual metaphors, combined with immersive presence, can effectively externalize internal anxiety states while facilitating emotional reflection and regulation. Calmavisio demonstrates conceptual coherence as a complementary exposure medium, particularly for individuals with GAD who experience difficulty with verbalization or imaginal exposure. Although further empirical validation is required, this study establishes a robust interdisciplinary framework for the development of symbolic immersive media in anxiety intervention

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