Virtual Reality Job Interview Training for Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Psychology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) face significant employment challenges.
• Job interviews represent a critical barrier to competitive employment for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability and effectiveness of virtual reality job interview training (VR-JIT).
• To evaluate VR-JIT in veterans with PTSD through a randomized controlled trial.

Main Methods:

• 23 veterans with PTSD received VR-JIT, while 10 served as waitlist controls.
• Training involved simulated interviews and job interviewing resources.
• Outcomes measured via video-recorded interviews scored by blinded experts and self-reported confidence.

Main Results:

• VR-JIT trainees showed significant improvement in job interview role-play compared to controls (p=0.04).
• The intervention was well-attended (95%), rated as easy-to-use, helpful, and preparatory.
• A moderate effect on self-confidence was observed, though not statistically significant between groups (p=0.09).

Conclusions:

• VR-JIT is acceptable to veterans with PTSD.
• Preliminary evidence suggests VR-JIT may improve job interview skills and confidence for veterans with PTSD.