Different Worlds: A Qualitative Study on the Use of VR Treatment in Prison to Change for the Real World

Violent offenders are a heterogeneous group where criminogenic needs often are substantial and violent behaviors persistent. Risk, Need, and Responsivity (RNR)-based treatment has shown effect on reducing the risk for recidivism in violent crime, but the development of novel treatments is crucial in making the change process more effective. Virtual Reality (VR) technology may be a tool to improve offender treatment. To investigate this, N = 13 offenders with experience from the VR-assisted treatment Virtual Reality Aggression Prevention Training (VRAPT) were interviewed about their experiences using VR in prison, VRAPT, and future treatment needs. Data was analyzed using Inductive Content Analysis. Results showed that VRAPT was seen as helpful through its focus on skills training but needs to be adapted to the challenges of prosocial change in the prison context and to a greater extent address individual needs. Participants’ descriptions varied regarding presence, perceived help from the program, violent antisocial attitudes and change during VRAPT. In the light of these findings, the development of VR-assisted treatment for violent offenders should focus on technical aspects, individual tailoring, and acknowledge the link between reactive and proactive aggression through antisocial attitudes. Such adaptions could make skills training more realistic when using VR and increase VRAPTs feasibility in prison.