Virtual reality therapy combats fear of public speaking
The fear of public speaking is often cited as the world's most common social phobia. A recent…
Georgia (Feb 18, 2003) — Virtual reality therapy combats fear of public speaking
Staff
Abstract
The fear of public speaking is often cited as the world's most common social phobia.
A recent study conducted in Kennesaw State University's Virtual Reality Technology
Laboratory is producing far−reaching benefits for sufferers of this common malady.
Dr. Max M. North‚ a pioneer in virtual reality therapy‚ has produced an in−depth case
study at Kennesaw State on the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in the treatment
of subjects who suffer from the fear of public speaking. The study discusses the use
of new techniques‚ which combined with traditional treatments‚ are more efficient
and effective for a longer period of time than traditional treatment alone. Traditional
treatment has included behavior therapy such as systematic desensitization‚ cognitive
restructuring and skill building.
Participants in the research were recruited from Kennesaw State computer science and
information systems classes. Following an extensive two?stage screening process‚ subjects
were placed in front of a virtual auditorium that was gradually filled with virtual
people. Crowd noise‚ including laughter‚ commentary and applause‚ was simulated and
experienced as part of the treatment sessions. The treatment schedule consisted of
five weekly 15−to−25 minute sessions incorporating the traditional approach with the
virtual reality therapy in the first known synthesis of these two powerful treatment
techniques.
"This treatment technique resulted in a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms‚"
said North. "These symptoms can include an increase in heart rate‚ lump in the throat‚
dry mouth‚ sweaty palms‚ loss of balance and weakness in the knees. Study participants
report that they have gained the ability to speak with greater confidence in front
of a crowd."
In addition‚ North continued‚ "This new technology provides a safe‚ effective‚ confidential
and economical approach to the treatment of other psychological disorders as well."
CONTACT:
Dr. Max M. North
Virtual Reality Technology Laboratory
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw‚ GA 30144
Telephone: (770) 420−4442
Email: max@acm.org
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Kennesaw State University is a comprehensive‚ residential institution with a growing
student population of 15‚600 from 118 countries. The fifth largest out of 34 institutions
in the University System of Georgia‚ KSU offers 55 undergraduate and graduate degree
programs.
A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers more than 150 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its approximately 38,000 students. With 13 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses, Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia and the third-largest university in the state. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the region and from 92 countries across the globe. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 6 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status, and one of the 50 largest public institutions in the country. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.
