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Reducing aggressive behavior in forensic inpatients with virtual reality aggression prevention training-intellectual
Patricia van Reekum1,2, Frank van den Boogert1,2, Peter de Looff1,2,3,4
1Fivoor Academy of Research, Innovation & Development (FARID), Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Frontiers in Psychology
|June 15, 2026
Summary
Virtual Reality Aggression Prevention Training for Intellectual Disability (VRAPT-ID) shows promise in reducing aggressive behavior in forensic patients with mild to borderline intellectual disability (MBID). Participants found the VR intervention effective and enjoyable for anger management.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Virtual Reality Applications
Background:
- Patients with mild to borderline intellectual disability (MBID) are disproportionately represented in forensic settings.
- Aggressive incidents are more prevalent among offenders with MBID within forensic psychiatric centers (FPCs).
- Virtual Reality (VR) offers immersive roleplay potential for enhancing aggression regulation training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To preliminarily assess the efficacy of VR Aggression Prevention Training - Intellectual Disability (VRAPT-ID).
- To investigate VRAPT-ID's effect on reducing aggressive behavior in forensic inpatients with MBID.
Main Methods:
- A single case experimental design (SCED) with a multiple baseline approach was employed.
- Arousal was monitored using Empatica E4 (measuring pulse rate, pulse rate variability, electrodermal activity).
- Aggressive behavior was assessed via the Social Dysfunction and Aggression Scale (SDAS); therapeutic alliance via the Session Rating Scale (SRS).
Main Results:
- Four of five completers showed decreased aggressive behavior with VRAPT-ID.
- Electrodermal activity (EDA) significantly increased during sessions, indicating heightened arousal.
- No significant changes in pulse rate (PR); pulse rate variability (PRV) data was unreliable. Participants reported enjoyment and improved anger management.
Conclusions:
- VRAPT-ID appears to be a feasible and promising intervention for aggressive behavior in forensic MBID populations.
- Further research, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), is necessary to validate these findings.
- Investigating the underlying mechanisms of VRAPT-ID is a key area for future studies.
