Virtual Reality Agression Prevention Therapy (VRAPT) versus Waiting List Control for Forensic Psychiatric Inpatients

4 important questions on Virtual Reality Agression Prevention Therapy (VRAPT) versus Waiting List Control for Forensic Psychiatric Inpatients

What are the reasons why VR could be interesting to add to traditional aggression therapy? (3)

1. Ability to explore and practice new behaviors in a safe, controlled, realistic, and personalized environment
2. It is focused on practicing behavior as opposed to a narrow focus only on gaining cognitive insights
3. VR is expected t be more enjoyable hopefully leading to better engagement, and less drop-outs and no shows

In what way is the therapist an active actor within VR? (3)

1. Virtual environments and avatars are controlled by the therapist
2. Therapists can role-play through avatars by use of a microphone with voice morphing
3. The heart rate and galvanic skin response were measured an real-time displayed at the therapist interface for feedback on physical arousal

What are the results of the primary outcomes (staff-rated and self-reported aggression) and the secondary outcomes (anger, hostility, and impulsivity)? (2)

1. No significant improvements were found after VRAPT compared to the waiting list on the primary outcomes
2. The secondary outcomes decreased in both groups over time. There were however positive treatment effects of VRAPT on secondary outcomes, but these were not maintained at a 3-month follow-up.
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What was found regarding the motivation of the patients to participate in the therapy?

There was a high inclusion rate, most therapists and patients were positive about the treatment, and during the follow-up, many patients could recall what they had learned. Therapists also observed that it had clearly elicited emotions, indicating that participants were able to practice and were immersed in the VR environment.

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