Virtual Reality Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Social Anxiety Among Youths in Hong Kong
Trial statusNot yet recruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age15-24
SponsorHong Kong Shue Yan University
About this trial
This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a VR-based CBT intervention for social anxiety-driven depression among Hong Kong youth (ages 15-24). Given the limitations of traditional CBT in addressing deep-seated fears, this study explores a more engaging and scalable alternative. Ninety participants with depressive symptoms and social difficulties will undergo six 60-minute VR sessions based on Clark and Wells' cognitive model of social phobia, with assessments at baseline, post-treatment, and three-month follow-up using the Social Phobia Inventory and PHQ-9. The study investigates whether VR intervention reduces social anxiety-driven depression and assesses its cost-effectiveness. Expected outcomes include symptom reduction, sustained benefits at follow-up, and evidence for VR as an innovative, scalable mental health intervention, informing clinical practice, research, and policy in Hong Kong and beyond.
Eligibility criteria
This trial accepts healthy volunteersQualifiers
youths aged between 15 and 24 years old; and
scoring above 24 on the Social Phobia Inventory.
Disqualifiers
unable to attempt a baseline assessment (e.g., due to being unpermitted to leave a psychiatric ward);
photosensitive epilepsy;
significant visual, auditory, or balance impairment;
currently receiving another intensive psychological intervention; and
Trial design
Design model
Parallel
Treatments tested in this trial
VR intervention
BehavioralThe intervention comprises six sessions of 60 minutes each. There are six VR scenarios such as a café, MTR, school scene, and classroom. The difficulty levels of these scenarios are determined by several factors: (1) the density and proximity of individuals present, as observed in a café or MTR setting, (2) the presence of familiar individuals, such as acquaintances or classmates who may be encountered and greeted in a school environment, and (3) the level of interaction required, such as engaging in a group discussion within a classroom. Participants have the flexibility to choose a different scenario for each session or repeat a previously selected one.
Treatment groups
90 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groupsGroup A: VR armExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Group B: Treat-as-usualNo intervention 0 interventions
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
1
Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN)
SPIN is a brief self-report tool consisting of 17 items that assess fear, avoidance, and physiological discomfort in social situations. The scale ranges from 0 to 68, with higher scores indicating worse outcomes.
Time frame
baseline, one-month (post-treatment), and three-month follow-upSecondary outcomes
1
Patient Health Questionnaire-9
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is widely used to screen for the presence and severity of depression, monitor the severity of depression over time, and assist with the diagnosis of depression. The scale ranges from 0 to 27, with higher scores indicating worse outcomes, reflecting greater severity of depression.
Time frame
baseline, one-month (post-treatment), and three-month follow-upLocations
Sponsors and contacts
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Source ClinicalTrials.gov
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