The Efficacy of A Single-Session Virtual Reality Exposure In The Therapeutic Intervention of Specific Phobias

Abstract

The present study endeavors to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of a singular session of virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy for treating specific phobias. A total of 33 individuals with clinically diagnosed specific phobias were allocated into either a treatment group (N=16) or a waiting list control group (N=17). Measurement instruments included the Demographic Information Form, the DSM-5 Severity Measure for Specific Phobia Scale, and the Self-Reported Anxiety Measure. In terms of statistical analyses, a mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to examine both within-group and between-group differences over time, effectively allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the treatment's impact. Results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the severity of phobia symptoms in the treatment group compared to the control group (p < .05). The therapeutic gains were maintained during a three-month follow-up assessment, with associated levels of anxiety and panic also showing a significant reduction in the treatment group (p < .01). This study corroborates the clinical efficacy of a single VR exposure session for the amelioration of specific phobias. The gains were not only immediate but also durable over a follow-up period, substantiating the longer-term effectiveness of this treatment modality. Despite certain limitations, such as the absence of active control treatments and a somewhat homogeneous sample demographic, the findings make a significant contribution to the extant literature. The study serves as an important foundation for future research that aims to broaden the applicability and understanding of VR-based therapeutic interventions for specific phobias.