Self-compassion can be learned using avatars in an immersive virtual reality, finds new research by a team of psychologists and computer scientists from the University of Barcelona (UB), the University College London (UCL) and the University of Derby. This innovative approach reduced self-criticism and increased self-compassion and feelings of contentment in naturally self-critical individuals. The scientists behind the study published in PLOS ONE say it could be applied to treat a range of clinical conditions including depression.