The proposed project presents an opportunity to expand use cases for a social engagement virtual reality (VR) program. The purpose is to assess the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of VR for anxiety symptoms associated with social interactions in public places, using a technology developed by Rey (previously Oxford VR or OVR). This project is a first step toward understanding new populations who can benefit from the program and input from subject matter experts who help treat anxiety in adolescents.
For this project, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with up to 10 providers specializing in mental health care for adolescents and up to 20 adolescents, ages 14-18, with mild to moderate social anxiety symptoms. Adolescent interviews will focus on using the VR program and providing feedback on the general comfort and usability of the headset, the general virtual experience, and feedback on whether the program would be an acceptable resource to help address anxiety symptoms. For providers, information will also be collected to understand the usability, feasibility, and acceptability of using the program with patients and potential workflow barriers and strengths. The qualitative feedback gathered will determine the next steps and whether a pilot study with adolescents is warranted. Summary feedback will be shared with Rey to help inform future development and use cases.
Adolescent with social anxiety or provider who treats adolescents for mental health Inclusion Criteria Adolescents: 14-18 Years Old Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (SAS-A) score in mild to moderate range Access to Wifi 8th grade+ reading level Inclusion Criteria Providers: Access to Wifi Treat adolescent populations for mental health Exclusion Criteria Adolescents: History of seizures, epilepsy, severe motion sickness or vertigo Fall risk and/or balance issues No stereoscopic vision Active psychosis and/or suicidality Currently pregnant or plans to become pregnant Exclusion Criteria Providers: History of seizures, epilepsy, severe motion sickness or vertigo Fall risk and/or balance issues No stereoscopic vision Currently pregnant or plans to become pregnant