Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 12 and up

Virtual reality training to prevent aggression in psychiatric patients

Official title: Feasibility and Pilot Study of Virtual Reality Aggression Prevention Training (VRAPT) for (Forensic) Psychiatric Patients

Run by University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT05293834 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new virtual reality training program to see if it can help reduce aggressive behaviors in psychiatric patients, both those in the justice system and those receiving regular care.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages12 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment68 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Basel, Canton of Basel-City)
StatusRecruiting
StartedSeptember 21, 2022
Main results expectedMay 31, 2027
Study endsMay 31, 2027
Registry record updatedJuly 9, 2025
Trial IDNCT05293834 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include forensic and non-forensic psychiatric in- and out-patients exhibiting aggressive behavior problems.

Probably not a fit

Patients with insufficient German language skills, intellectual disabilities, epilepsy, or those in an acute psychotic state may 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 study evaluates the effectiveness of Virtual Reality Aggression Prevention Training (VRAPT) for both forensic and non-forensic psychiatric patients in Switzerland. It aims to address the high prevalence of violent and aggressive behaviors in these populations by implementing a novel virtual reality intervention. The study will assess the feasibility of VRAPT and gather data on its impact on aggressive behaviors among adult and juvenile patients. Previous research has shown some promise for VRAPT in reducing aggression, and this study seeks to expand its application in a new setting.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce aggressive behaviors in psychiatric patients, leading to improved safety and rehabilitation outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies on VRAPT in other countries have shown some initial success, indicating potential for effectiveness in this new context.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* forensic and non-forensic psychiatric in- and out-patients of the Forensic Department or Adult Department of the Psychiatric University Hospitals Basel with aggressive behavior problems according to their clinical treatment team (which includes senior medical doctor, therapist, nursing staff).

Exclusion Criteria:

* insufficient German language skills (in speech or reading);
* intellectual disabilities (IQ \< 70);
* epilepsy;
* acute psychotic state.

Where it's running

  • Psychiatric University Hospitals (UPK) Basel
    Basel, Canton of Basel-City, Switzerland
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Cyril Boonmann, PhD — Psychiatric University Hospitals (UPK) Basel
  • Study coordinator: Cyril Boonmann, PhD
  • Email: cyril.boonmann@upk.ch
  • Phone: +41 61 325 82 91

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.