Type

Article

Keywords

virtual reality, PTSD, trauma, immersion

Abstract

In the aftermath of traumatic events such as combat, sexual violence, or a natural disaster, individuals may develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Technological advancements in virtual reality (VR) over the past few decades have opened new avenues for improving the assessment, treatment, and understanding of PTSD. VR allows users to be immersed in interactive, computer-generated environments that simulate real-world scenarios, such as a warzone or assault location, that would be difficult or unsafe to reproduce using traditional methods. The present paper offers an overview of how VR technology has been employed in both clinical and research settings related to PTSD. We organize the discussion into five sections that address key domains of clinical utility (assessment, prevention, and treatment) and basic research (studies on the development of PTSD and on underlying physiological mechanisms of PTSD). Within each section, we identify novel approaches, summarize key findings, and discuss major limitations. We conclude by highlighting the need for methodological refinements and outlining promising directions for future research and practice.

Department(s)

Psychology

Journal or Book Title

IUSVEducation

Publication Year

2026

Page range

17-36

Publisher

Istituto Universitario Salesiano di Venezia

Rights Management

The original authors own the copyright to this work and have granted Carleton College permission to display and distribute it online through the Carleton College Library. For more information on the copyright status of this work, refer to the current copyright holder.

External URL

https://iusveducation.it/the-use-of-virtual-reality-in-ptsd-research-and-practice/

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