2026-10-07T16:00:50Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32805248 2026-10-01T16:17:07Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy as a clinical intervention for public speaking anxiety in a treatment seeking sample: an extended literature review and randomised waitlist controlled trial Daryl Sweet (24292580) PUREID: 669904061 virtual reality virtual reality exposure therapy randomised control trial public speaking anxiety social anxiety disorder This doctoral thesis comprises a narrative review examining the clinical utility of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) for public speaking anxiety (PSA) and a pilot RCT in a clinical service. The review critically examines the potential utility and challenges of integrating VRET into clinical practice to treat PSA and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). Key mechanisms and models of SAD and PSA are discussed with a focus on the role of exposure-based treatment. VRET as an exposure modality is then examined with a focus on mechanisms and key components such as presence, in the context of other exposure treatments. The current evidence for the efficacy of VRET for SA and SAD is reviewed, including in comparison to in-vivo exposure and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The utility of VRET beyond efficacy is considered, with clinical considerations in applying VRET identified. A pilot RCT was conducted in a clinical service setting. Participants with high PSA awaiting treatment from a psychological therapy service (n=45) were randomly assigned to a four-week 360o video intervention (n=16) or no treatment control (n=15). Outcomes were collected over five time-points. Participants found the study to be feasible and credible. Findings demonstrate clinical feasibility and efficacy for VRET to significantly reduce PSA, social anxiety and FNE in a treatment seeking population.<br><i><br>Thesis embargoed until 31st July 2028</i><br> 2026-10-01T16:17:07Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32805248.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/Virtual_Reality_Exposure_Therapy_as_a_clinical_intervention_for_public_speaking_anxiety_in_a_treatment_seeking_sample_an_extended_literature_review_and_randomised_waitlist_controlled_trial/32805248 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2028-07-31