HomeAbstract of 7th-icrpconfReal-Time Adaptive Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Acrophobia via Physiological Biofeedback: A Methodological Study

Real-Time Adaptive Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Acrophobia via Physiological Biofeedback: A Methodological Study

  • Jun 3, 2026
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Abstract Book of the 7th International Conference on Research in Psychology

Year: 2026

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Real-Time Adaptive Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Acrophobia via Physiological Biofeedback: A Methodological Study

Paria Daghooghi, Benyamin Baharizadeh, Elaheh Bakhtiari, Giorgio M. Grasso

ABSTRACT:

Acrophobia is a prevalent anxiety disorder affecting nearly one-third of the population. Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) has emerged as an effective alternative to traditional exposure methods for treating this specific phobia by providing a safe and controlled environment. However, many current systems employ static and non-adaptive scenarios that are unable to adjust based on the individual’s real-time physiological state. This paper presents a methodological study on a real-time adaptive VRET system, that continuously tracks Heart Rate (HR), Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and Electrodermal Activity (EDA) to assess the user’s anxiety levels while experiencing height-related environments. By implementing a closed-loop mechanism, the virtual environment parameters, such as perceived height, are dynamically adjusted, to maintain the participant’s anxiety level within an optimal Therapeutic zone. The study follows a single-group experimental pre-test and post-test design that involves 10 participants. Individuals undergo three exposure sessions: an initial habituation session at low altitude designed to reduce anticipation anxiety toward the scene, followed by two active treatment sessions at moderate and high intensities. Effectiveness is evaluated through psychological instruments, including the Acrophobia Questionnaire, Visual Height Intolerance Severity Scale, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. It is expected that this personalized, two-way interaction between the patient and the virtual environment will result in a significant reduction in fear and anxiety scores, alongside improved treatment retention compared to static systems.

Keywords: Electrodermal Activity; Habituation; Heartrate; Heartrate variability; VR