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Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Human Fear Conditioning Conducted in Full Immersion 3-Dimensional Virtual Reality
Published on: August 9, 2010
Effect of virtual reality headset for pediatric fear and pain distraction during immunization
Rudnick Chad1, Sulaiman Emaan2, Orden Jillian2
1Charles E Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
Aim:
Fear of needles is a well-known phobia among children and adults. This study presents the rationale, feasibility and results of a pilot study applying a virtual reality (VR) headset as a fear reduction and pain distraction during immunizations.
Patients & Methods:
17 subjects and 17 parents rated their fear and pain level pre- and postimmunization using Wong-Baker pain scale and McMurtry children's fear scale. Immunization was provided, while subject was wearing a VR headset.
Results:
Ratings of anticipated versus actual fear and pain due to immunizations improved following use of the VR headset in 94.1% of pediatric subjects.
Conclusion:
The use of a VR headset was well received and reduced overall fear and pain in children receiving immunizations.
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