Improving exposure therapy for cockroach phobia using augmented reality
Improving the Efficacy of Exposure Therapy Using Projection-Based Augmented Reality for the Treatment of Cockroach Phobia: A Randomized Clinical Trial
NA · Universitat Jaume I · NCT04563403
This study tests a new way to help people with cockroach phobia by using augmented reality to see if exposing them to different types of cockroaches works better than just one type.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universitat Jaume I (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Castellon, Castellón) |
| Trial ID | NCT04563403 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Projection-Based Augmented Reality Therapy (P-ARET) for treating cockroach phobia by comparing two approaches: exposure to multiple types of cockroaches versus a single type. The research focuses on enhancing traditional exposure therapy methods, which often face challenges such as low acceptance and high dropout rates. By utilizing augmented reality, the study seeks to provide a controlled and private environment for patients, allowing for varied and intense exposure to their phobia. The goal is to optimize therapeutic outcomes through innovative techniques that promote inhibitory learning.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who meet the DSM-5 criteria for specific phobia related to cockroaches and have experienced this phobia for at least six months.
Not a fit: Patients with severe mental disorders requiring immediate attention or those currently undergoing similar treatment programs may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve treatment outcomes for individuals suffering from cockroach phobia.
How similar studies have performed: While traditional exposure therapy has been widely used, the application of augmented reality in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Being at least 18 years old * Meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for SP (animal subtype) to cockroaches - * Having a minimum of six-month duration of the phobia * Sign an informed consent * Presenting a score of at least 4 on the fear and avoidance scales of the diagnostic interview applied Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of another severe mental disorder that requires immediate attention * Having current alcohol or drug dependence or abuse, psychosis or severe organic illness * Currently being treated in a similar treatment program * Being capable of inserting their hands in a plastic container with a cockroach (during the behavioral test) * Receiving other psychological treatment during the study for cockroach phobia * Start receiving pharmacological treatment during the study (or in case of being already taking them, change the drug or dose)
Where this trial is running
Castellon, Castellón
- Universitat Jaume I — Castellon, Castellón, Spain (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Soledad Quero, Psychology
- Email: squero@uji.es
- Phone: 615063917
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Specific Phobia, Animal, Specific Phobia, Cockroach phobia, Exposure therapy, Projection-Based augmented reality therapy, Multiple Stimuli, Single Stimulus, Randomized Clinical Trial