Virtual-reality job-skills training for people with schizophrenia
Official title: Develop a Novel Occupational Training Program for Schizophrenia Patients Based on Virtual Reality Techniques
Run by National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT05830903 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This pilot will try a virtual-reality job-training program to improve interview and problem-solving skills in adults with schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | National Taiwan University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Taipei) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 1, 2020 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05830903 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 20–55 with DSM-5 schizophrenia who are motivated to work, have full-scale IQ >70, and are clinically stable (PANSS positive <70) without major comorbid psychiatric/neurological disorders or recent substance abuse are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People with major comorbid psychiatric or neurological disorders, recent substance abuse, significant visual or hearing impairments, or those not motivated to work are unlikely to benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This single-site pilot will enroll 40 adults with DSM-5 schizophrenia to receive a virtual-reality (VR)–assisted vocational training program. Participants will complete standardized pre- and post-training assessments of interview skills and problem-solving after practicing in simulated VR workplace scenarios. Eligible participants are aged 20–55, have full-scale IQ >70 and clinical stability (PANSS positive <70); those with major comorbid psychiatric/neurological disorders, recent substance abuse, or sensory impairments are excluded. The study compares changes before and after the program to see if the VR training produces measurable improvements in practical job-related skills.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could help participants gain practical job interview and problem-solving skills that improve employability and daily functioning.
How similar studies have gone: Previous VR-based social and cognitive training programs for schizophrenia have shown promising but preliminary benefits for functional skills, so this pilot builds on emerging evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Having a diagnosis of schizophrenia based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -5th version * Aged between 20 and 55 years. * Motivated to have a job. * Having a full-scale IQ \> 70 on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-version IV. * Having a PANSS positive scale \< 70, indicating a stable condition during the illness course. Exclusion Criteria: * Comorbid with other major psychiatric disorders (i.e., bipolar disorders) or neurological diseases. * Substance abuse within one year. * Visual impairment and/or hearing impairment that would preclude participation in the VR-based training program.
Where it's running
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National Taiwan University Hospital
Taipei, Taiwan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yi Ling Chien — National Taiwan University Hospital
- Study coordinator: Yi Ling Chien
- Email: ylchien@hotmail.com
- Phone: 886-2-2312-3456
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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.