Using virtual reality to prevent gun violence in injured adults
RFA-CE-23-006, A Virtual Reality Brief Violence Intervention: Preventing gun violence among violently injured adults
['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-10900438
This study is testing a virtual reality program that helps young adults who have been hurt by violence learn about the dangers of gun violence and how to stay safe, all while having an engaging and culturally relevant experience.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10900438 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop and evaluate a virtual reality intervention designed to prevent gun violence among adults who have been violently injured. By utilizing immersive storytelling and gameplay, the intervention seeks to engage patients in a culturally relevant manner while providing them with psychoeducation about the risks of violence and strategies for prevention. The program targets young adults, particularly those at high risk of retaliatory violence, to help reduce the likelihood of re-injury and mortality after hospital discharge.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this intervention are young adults aged 18-35 who have been hospitalized due to firearm-related injuries.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced violent injuries or those outside the targeted age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce incidents of gun violence and improve safety for individuals who have experienced violent injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in health interventions is gaining traction, this specific approach to preventing gun violence is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
RICHMOND, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY — RICHMOND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: THOMSON, NICHOLAS DAVID — VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: THOMSON, NICHOLAS DAVID
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 below.