Effects of rhythmic eye movements during a virtual reality exposure paradigm for spider-phobic patients

Rhythmic eye movements performed during eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy have been shown to evoke a physiological de-arousal pattern.

Here, we examined whether the efficacy of a virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) paradigm for phobic patients could be improved by adding rhythmic eye movements.

Spider-phobic patients (N = 53) were randomly assigned to either a group performing rhythmic eye movements or a control group undergoing exposure without such eye movements.

During the VRET session, heart rate, electrodermal activity, eye movements, and subjective fear ratings were recorded. Participants underwent behavioural avoidance tests before and after treatment as well as a follow-up 10-14 days later. Questionnaire data were assessed before exposure and at follow-up.

There were clear treatment effects in both groups with almost no group differences (i.e., the subjective fear ratings and the skin conductance response).

Contrary to our expectation, the implementation of rhythmic eye movements during virtual exposure did not enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. However, the eye movement group did show a significantly lower heart rate during exposure compared with the control group which might indicate a less stressful treatment.

One-session Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy reduced fear of spiders effectively. Performing rhythmic eye movements during exposure did not enhance therapy effects. Rhythmic eye movements during exposure resulted in lower heart rate than standard exposure.