Description: DeFear is a Web-based Virtual Reality (VR) application that provides an immersive environment through virtual reality for therapists to treat phobias. It enables people to overcome their fears under the supervision of trusted therapists in the safety of their offices using virtual reality.
The project deals with three phobias: entomophobia (fear of insects), acrophobia (fear of heights), and social phobia (fear of social situations). The differentiating factor in this project is that the therapists are equipped with more control during treatment while keeping the comfort of clients in consideration. The design of the application is such that therapists are provided with an interface to control the environment of therapy (VR scenarios) and its intensity. The therapy is conducted in three stages with therapy becoming more intense with each increasing stage. The application facilitates note taking for therapists during the session. The client enters the therapy session by use of the VR headset. The client can engage with their feared object or situation and move about in the scenario.
Socio-Economic Benefits: Enhanced Therapist Efficiency DeFear empowers therapists with advanced tools and controls to administer Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) more efficiently. The application’s interface allows therapists to customize therapy sessions based on individual client needs, thereby optimizing the effectiveness of treatment.
Economic Productivity
Overcoming phobias can have significant positive implications for individuals’ economic productivity and societal well-being. By enabling individuals to overcome fears that may have previously hindered their professional or social lives, DeFear empowers clients to pursue educational, career, and social opportunities with greater confidence and effectiveness.
Cost Reduction DeFear offers a cost-effective solution for phobia treatment by utilizing web-based virtual reality technology. By reducing the need for physical exposure therapy sessions, which can be costly due to factors like travel expenses and specialized equipment.
Category: Virtual Reality
Department: CSSE