Virtual Reality for the Treatment of Positive Symptoms of Psychosis: A Meta-Analysis of Trials

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Positive symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions, can be profoundly distressing and debilitating for those affected. Emerging evidence indicates virtual reality (VR) interventions offer a promising avenue for treatment of psychosis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effectiveness of VR interventions on alleviating the positive symptoms of psychosis. Recent Findings: Studies were identified following a systematic search of titles, abstracts, and keywords in seven databases. A total of 82 full-text articles were screened, with eight studies meeting the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. A total of 786 participants were represented in the included studies. The analysis, encompassing combined positive symptoms, hallucinations, and delusions, indicates a non-significant small effect size of g = 0.10 (p =.445) for combined symptoms, a non-significant small effect size of g =.14 (p =.129) for hallucinations and a significant medium effect size of g =.34 (p =.001) for delusions. Summary: The findings suggest that VR interventions exhibit promise in reducing delusions compared to traditional treatments, but more research is required.