Virtual Reality for Public Speaking Anxiety
(ETC2 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine how virtual reality (VR) can reduce anxiety about public speaking. Participants will undergo a single-session VR exposure intervention after watching a film clip that induces either a positive or negative mood. Researchers seek to understand if a naturally positive outlook or mood influences the effectiveness of the VR session. College students who feel nervous about public speaking may find this trial suitable. As an unphased trial, it provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative anxiety-reduction methods in a supportive environment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this VR exposure intervention is safe for treating public speaking anxiety?
Research has shown that virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated for treating fear of public speaking. In past studies, just one VR session lowered anxiety and distress in people afraid of speaking in public. These studies reported no major safety issues or serious side effects.
For instance, one study discovered that even a single personalized VR session greatly reduced anxiety levels. Another study showed that VR sessions lessened fear in people with public speaking anxiety, without causing significant negative effects.
Overall, based on current research, VR exposure therapy appears to be a safe treatment option for public speaking anxiety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using virtual reality (VR) for public speaking anxiety because it offers a unique, immersive experience that traditional treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication don't provide. Unlike these standard options, VR exposure therapy allows individuals to safely practice public speaking in a controlled yet realistic environment, which can help desensitize them to their fears more effectively. Additionally, this VR intervention is conducted following mood induction, either positive or negative, which could help researchers understand how mood influences anxiety treatment outcomes. This approach not only has the potential to be more engaging but also customizable to each individual's needs, making it a promising alternative to existing treatments.
What evidence suggests that this VR exposure intervention is effective for public speaking anxiety?
Research has shown that Virtual Reality (VR) exposure therapy can help individuals anxious about public speaking. Studies have found that this therapy improves comfort with public speaking and reduces nervousness during speaking tasks. In past studies, participants experienced lower heart rates and reduced anxiety after using VR exposure therapy. This trial will evaluate a single-session VR exposure intervention, conducted after either positive or negative mood induction via film clips. This method places individuals in a virtual setting to practice public speaking, helping them gain confidence and reduce fear over time. These findings suggest that VR exposure therapy is a promising option for those struggling with public speaking anxiety.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Michael Otto, PhD
Principal Investigator
Boston University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with anxiety disorders, specifically those who experience speech anxiety or social anxiety disorder. Participants should be comfortable using virtual reality (VR) technology as the intervention involves a single-session VR exposure.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
In-person Assessment and Brief Exposure Intervention
Participants undergo in-person assessment and brief exposure intervention for public speaking anxiety
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for public speaking and social anxiety outcomes one week after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Single-session VR exposure intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Boston University Charles River Campus
Lead Sponsor
The University of Hong Kong
Collaborator
University of Texas at Austin
Collaborator
Tufts University
Collaborator
The University of New South Wales
Collaborator
Curtin University
Collaborator
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Collaborator
University of Western Sydney
Collaborator
National University of Singapore
Collaborator
Philipps Universität Marburg
Collaborator