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Treating children's aggressive behavior problems using cognitive behavior therapy with virtual reality: A multicenter
Sophie C Alsem1,2, Anouk van Dijk2, Esmée E Verhulp1
1Department of Developmental Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Child Development
|July 17, 2023
Summary
Interactive virtual reality may improve Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for children with aggressive behavior problems. This therapy approach showed greater effectiveness than traditional roleplays or standard care.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Aggressive behavior problems in children are a significant concern.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common treatment approach.
- Exploring innovative therapeutic tools is crucial for enhancing treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if interactive virtual reality (VR) enhances the effectiveness of CBT for reducing aggressive behavior in children.
- To compare the efficacy of CBT with VR versus CBT with traditional roleplays and care-as-usual.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter randomized controlled trial involving 115 boys with aggressive behavior problems.
- Participants were randomized into three groups: CBT with VR, CBT with roleplays, or care-as-usual.
- Bayesian analyses were used to compare treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- CBT with VR demonstrated a higher likelihood of reducing aggressive behavior compared to care-as-usual for most outcomes.
- CBT with VR also showed greater effectiveness than CBT with roleplays for several outcomes.
- Virtual reality enhanced children's emotional engagement, practice immersion, and treatment appreciation compared to roleplays.
Conclusions:
- Interactive virtual reality shows promise as a tool to augment CBT for children's aggressive behavior problems.
- VR may lead to better treatment engagement and outcomes compared to traditional methods.
- Further research into VR-enhanced CBT is warranted for pediatric behavioral health.
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