Effectiveness of virtual reality exposure therapy for treating acrophobia: a systematic review
Abstract
Acrophobia is a specific phobia characterized by an extreme and irrational fear of heights, which significantly affects the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Although exposure-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has proven effective, it has several practical limitations. In this context, Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) has emerged as an innovative alternative. The objective of this systematic review is to describe the efficacy of VRET in the treatment of acrophobia. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a search was conducted in Scopus, Ovid Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane. Study selection was performed using the Rayyan platform, and methodological quality was assessed according to the CASPe guidelines. Five randomized controlled trials that met the inclusion criteria were selected, demonstrating that VRET is effective in the treatment of acrophobia. The findings show that this virtual format significantly reduces anxiety levels and allows for progressive, controlled, safe, adaptable, and lower-cost exposure. In conclusion, although VRET follows CBT guidelines, the virtual environment enables an immersive experience that generates a controlled memory resource, facilitating tolerance and overcoming of fear.
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