Using virtual reality to help young adults with ADHD focus better
Official title: Development of a Novel Virtual Reality Treatment for Emerging Adults with ADHD
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10904679 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new virtual reality program to help young adults with ADHD stay focused while studying or doing homework, making it easier for them to improve their concentration and motivation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $577,126 |
| NIH project number | 5R61MH131632-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904679 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are emerging adults aged 18-21 who have been diagnosed with ADHD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not diagnosed with ADHD or are outside the age range of 18-21 may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel virtual reality (VR) treatment designed to assist emerging adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in maintaining focus while studying or completing homework. By utilizing a VR headset, participants will be placed in a distraction-free environment that automates feedback and reinforcement, which are essential for effective behavioral treatment. The study will compare different intervention approaches and collect data on participants' concentration, motivation, and homework effort through surveys and objective measures. This innovative approach aims to provide a new tool for individuals with ADHD, potentially improving their academic performance and daily functioning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for young adults with ADHD, enhancing their ability to focus and succeed academically.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of virtual reality in behavioral treatment is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar applications for enhancing focus and engagement in individuals with ADHD.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Langberg, Joshua Morris — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Langberg, Joshua Morris
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.