Virtual reality delivered exposure for fear of needles: a small-scale pilot.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fear of needles significantly impacts individual and public health by leading many adults to avoid necessary medical procedures, including vaccinations and blood tests. Virtual Reality Exposure-Based Therapy has shown promise as an effective and accessible intervention for anxiety disorders but remains under-explored.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of a single-session virtual reality intervention targeting fear of needles in adults.

Methods

A total of 62 adults reporting needle fear were recruited into experimental (n = 32) and online comparison groups (n = 30). The experimental group completed one Virtual Reality Exposure-Based Therapy session, which comprised of two self-paced virtual reality exposures simulating me

SUBMITTER: Caltabiano A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12462493 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature