Using virtual reality to help with public speaking anxiety

Virtual Reality Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Public Speaking Anxiety

This study is testing whether virtual reality therapy can help young adults with public speaking anxiety feel more comfortable and confident when speaking in front of others.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 80 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 30 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Vilnius University (Academic / other)
• Locations: 1 site (Vilnius)
• Trial ID: NCT06214039 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy for young adults experiencing public speaking anxiety. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving a single session of VR exposure therapy followed by a four-week online program, and the other receiving three sessions of VR exposure therapy with the same online follow-up. The study aims to compare the outcomes of these two approaches to determine the most effective method for reducing anxiety related to public speaking. The use of VR allows for controlled exposure to anxiety-inducing scenarios without the need for in-person interactions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are young adults aged 18-30 who are currently studying in higher education and experience significant public speaking anxiety.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of seizures, significant medical conditions, or severe psychiatric issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce public speaking anxiety in young adults, improving their confidence and performance in academic and professional settings.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that one-session therapy can effectively reduce public speaking anxiety, but this specific comparison of VR exposure methods is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* aged 18-30 and studying in higher education;
* experiencing a significant level of public speaking anxiety (60+ on PSAS);
* able to use a computer and have access to the internet for the duration of the study;
* able to understand, write and speak in Lithuanian;
* available to participate in one or three in-person intervention sessions and can devote the time to participate in a 4-week online program following the intervention sessions.

Exclusion Criteria:

* a history of seizures or a history of epilepsy;
* other significant medical conditions that would prevent them from participating in the program;
* high levels of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 rating of 15 and above and mentions of suicidal ideation) or other significant psychiatric conditions that would interfere with participation in the program;
* a tendency to have extreme seasickness reactions or a history of adverse physical reactions to virtual reality experiences or difficulty with or lack of stereoscopic vision;
* current involvement in other psychological interventions such as psychological counseling or psychotherapy;
* use of psychoactive drugs, unless stable for three months;
* current participation in other programs aimed at reducing public speaking anxiety.

Where this trial is running

Vilnius

• Vilnius University — Vilnius, Lithuania (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Jonas Eimontas, PhD

Conditions Public Speaking Anxiety; public speaking anxiety; virtual reality; social anxiety; psychological intervention; exposure