Using augmented reality to treat cockroach phobia
Effectiveness of a Projection-based Augmented Reality Exposure System in Treating Cockroach Phobia. A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if using augmented reality can help people with a fear of cockroaches feel better compared to traditional therapy or no treatment at all.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 96 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universitat Jaume I Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Castellon, Castellón) |
| Trial ID | NCT04563390 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a projection-based augmented reality exposure system for treating cockroach phobia through a randomized controlled trial. Participants will be assigned to one of three groups: augmented reality therapy, traditional in vivo exposure therapy, or a waiting list control. The study will also explore the use of eye-tracking technology to assess changes in attentional biases related to the phobia. By leveraging augmented reality, the study seeks to enhance the therapeutic process and improve treatment outcomes for individuals with this specific phobia.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who meet the DSM-5 criteria for cockroach-specific phobia and have experienced the 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 provide a more effective and engaging treatment option for individuals suffering from cockroach phobia.
How similar studies have performed: While traditional exposure therapy has been effective, the use of augmented reality in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
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
- Principal investigator: Soledad Quero, Psychology — Universitat Jaume I
- Study coordinator: Soledad Quero, Psychology
- Email: squero@uji.es
- Phone: 96 438 76 41
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.