Using virtual reality to train parents of children with ADHD

Implementation of Parent Training Through the Use of Virtual Reality: a Randomized, Controlled, Single-blind Study

Not applicable Interventional IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo · NCT05809388

This study is testing if a virtual reality program can help parents of children with ADHD learn better ways to support their kids compared to regular training sessions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment68 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 10 Years
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo Academic / other
Locations1 site (Messina)
Trial IDNCT05809388 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a virtual reality-assisted parent training program for parents of children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It aims to compare the outcomes of this innovative approach against traditional parent training sessions. By utilizing virtual reality, the program seeks to create a controlled environment that enhances parents' self-control and empathy towards their child's challenges. The study is designed as a single-blind, randomized, controlled trial involving ADHD patients aged 6 to 10 and their parents.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 6 to 10 years diagnosed with ADHD and their parents.

Not a fit: Patients with significant comorbid psychiatric or neurological conditions, or those outside the specified age range, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve parenting skills and, consequently, the management of ADHD symptoms in children.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation has shown promise, this specific application in parent training for ADHD is novel and has not been previously tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients diagnosed with ADHD, according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria;
* Age including 6 to 10 years;
* Subjects with IQ \>70;
* Signed informed consent and the availability of at least one family member to participate in the diagnostic/therapeutic process.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Important comorbidities with psychiatric or neurological syndromes (e.g., epilepsy, known genetic syndromes, infantile cerebral palsy, sensory deficits);
* Subjects under the age of 6 years;
* Subjects older than 10 years of age;
* Subjects diagnosed with intellectual disability (IQ ≤70);
* Informed consent not signed and/or unavailability of at least one family member to participate in the diagnostic/therapeutic process.

Where this trial is running

Messina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.