From Microsociology to VR Design: A Framework for integrating Non-Verbal Behavior in Adaptive Systems

Adaptive virtual reality (VR) training systems face a fundamental challenge: nonverbal cues are context-dependent and resist straightforward interpretation. We present a framework that translates microsociological theory into practical system design through two phases: dataset development (defining meaningful gestures/postures and related scenarios (embedding cues in realistic situations), and perception studies (measuring interpretation variance). As a testbed, we apply this framework to police-citizen conflict resolution training - a domain lacking design-oriented empirical data. We identified 19 gestures/postures across 10 scenarios and collected perception data from 600 residents in Germany. This work demonstrates a replicable methodology for developing realistic adaptive systems. The framework addresses key limitations in current approaches with applications extending beyond police training to any domain requiring sophisticated behavioral interpretation of conflict interactions.