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Clinical Trial
. 1995 Apr;152(4):626-8.
doi: 10.1176/ajp.152.4.626.

Effectiveness of computer-generated (virtual reality) graded exposure in the treatment of acrophobia

B O Rothbaum  1 , L F Hodges, R Kooper, D Opdyke, J S Williford, M North
Affiliations
Clinical Trial

Effectiveness of computer-generated (virtual reality) graded exposure in the treatment of acrophobia

B O Rothbaum et al. Am J Psychiatry. 1995 Apr.

Abstract

Objective: The authors' goal was to examine the efficacy of computer-generated (virtual reality) graded exposure in the treatment of acrophobia (fear of heights).

Method: Twenty college students with acrophobia were randomly assigned to virtual reality graded exposure treatment (N = 12) or to a waiting-list comparison group (N = 8). Seventeen students completed the study. Sessions were conducted individually over 8 weeks. Outcome was assessed by using measures of anxiety, avoidance, attitudes, and distress associated with exposure to heights before and after treatment.

Results: Significant differences between the students who completed the virtual reality treatment (N = 10) and those on the waiting list (N = 7) were found on all measures. The treatment group was significantly improved after 8 weeks, but the comparison group was unchanged.

Conclusions: The authors conclude that treatment with virtual reality graded exposure was successful in reducing fear of heights.

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