Virtual reality intervention to prevent gun violence among injured adults
Official title: A Virtual Reality Brief Violence Intervention: Preventing Gun Violence Among Violently Injured Adults
Run by Virginia Commonwealth University · NCT06239285 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a virtual reality program to see if it can help injured adults make better choices and reduce gun violence in their lives.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 220 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Virginia Commonwealth University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Richmond, Virginia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 26, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 29, 2027 |
| Study ends | October 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06239285 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have been violently injured and are English-speaking.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are under 18 years old or not victims of violent crime will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a Virtual Reality Brief Violence Intervention (BVI-VR) designed to reduce firearm-related violence, re-injury, and mortality among violently injured adults. The intervention incorporates principles of positive psychology, motivational goal setting, psychoeducation, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, delivered through a 30-minute VR experience. The study will utilize a randomized control trial methodology, gathering data from various sources including hospital records and self-reports to assess the intervention's impact on psychosocial factors and economic efficiency. Participants will be empowered to make positive choices and leverage community opportunities to enhance their well-being.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce the incidence of firearm-related violence and improve the overall well-being of victims.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using virtual reality for behavioral interventions, but this specific approach targeting gun violence is novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * violently injured patients from VCU's Level 1 Trauma Center * 18 years or older * English-speaking Exclusion Criteria: * Under 18 years old * Not a victim of Violent crime
Where it's running
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Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nicholas Thomson — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Nicholas Thomson
- Email: Nicholas.thomson@vcuhealth.org
- Phone: (804) 297-5740
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.