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Analysis of distributed-collaborative activity during augmented reality exposure therapy for cockroach phobia
Maja Wrzesien1, Jean-Marie Burkhardt, Mariano Alcañiz Raya
1Instituto Interuniversitario de Investigación en Bioingeniería y Tecnología Orientada al Ser Humano, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (I3BH), (UPV), 46022 Valencia, España. mwrzesien@labhuman.i3bh.es
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|June 15, 2010
Summary
Augmented Reality Exposure Therapy (ARET) for cockroach phobia shows promise. This study explores human-computer interactions, finding the therapy process involves patients, therapists, and various technological and physical tools for improved treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Virtual Reality
Background:
- Phobia treatment often uses exposure therapy.
- Augmented Reality Exposure Therapy (ARET) is a novel approach for phobia treatment.
- Limited research exists on the human-computer interaction aspects of ARET systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the collaborative and interactive dynamics between patients, therapists, and an ARET system.
- To identify key human-computer interaction issues in ARET for cockroach phobia.
- To gather preliminary data on the therapeutic process involving ARET.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of patient-therapist-system interactions during ARET sessions.
- Observation of the use of various artifacts, including Augmented Reality cockroaches, Head Mounted Displays (HMDs), and traditional tools.
- Exploration of the distribution of therapeutic tasks among participants and tools.
Main Results:
- The therapeutic process is a collaborative effort involving patients, therapists, and multiple artifacts.
- Key interaction points include the AR cockroaches, HMD, computer interface, and physical tools like a swatter.
- The system's design and the integration of physical and virtual elements influence the therapeutic interaction.
Conclusions:
- ARET for cockroach phobia involves a complex interplay between human agents and technological/physical artifacts.
- Understanding these human-computer interaction dynamics is crucial for optimizing ARET system design and effectiveness.
- Further research can refine ARET systems based on these interaction findings to enhance phobia treatment outcomes.
