Virtual reality intervention to prevent gun violence among injured adults

A Virtual Reality Brief Violence Intervention: Preventing Gun Violence Among Violently Injured Adults

NA · Virginia Commonwealth University · NCT06239285

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

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment220 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVirginia Commonwealth University (other)
Locations1 site (Richmond, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT06239285 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have been violently injured and are English-speaking.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 18 years old or not victims of violent crime will not benefit from this study.

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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using virtual reality for behavioral interventions, but this specific approach targeting gun violence is novel.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Richmond, Virginia

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Violence, Firearm Violence Victim

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.