Do self-statements enhance the effectiveness of virtual reality exposure therapy? A comparative evaluation in acrophobia.
There is a clear need for more detailed analysis of the role of cognitive self-statements in virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET). To date, no research on this topic has been done. The primary aim of this study was to investigate whether coping self-statements would enhance the effectiveness of VRET. In a randomized crossover design, 26 patients with acrophobia (DSM-IV diagnosis of specific phobia) were randomly assigned to two sessions of VRET followed by two sessions of VRET plus coping self-statements, or the other way around: first two sessions of VRET plus coping self-statements followed by two sessions of VRET. Results showed that VRET, regardless of addition of coping self-statements, decreased anxiety of heights, decreased avoidance of height situations, and improved attitudes towards heights. However, at 6-month follow-up, most gains during treatment were not fully retained.
Krijn
M
M
Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Roetersstraat 15, 1018 WB Amsterdam, The Netherlands. mkrijn@chello.nl
Emmelkamp
P M G
PM
Olafsson
R P
RP
Schuemie
Martijn J
MJ
van der Mast
Charles A P G
CA
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D006801:Humans; D010698:Phobic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D011937:Reality Therapy; D012650:Self Disclosure; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D014705:Verbal Behavior