Efficacy of a Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy Protocol for Fear of Public Speaking: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Background: The fear of public speaking significantly affects those who suffer from it. The present research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy protocol for fear of public speaking. Methods: A randomized controlled pilot study with repeated measures was conducted in an experimental group (n = 7) and a wait-list control group (n = 7). The protocol consisted of 7 to 8 sessions: 1 for psychoeducation, 1 for cognitive flexibility, 4 to 5 for VR exposure and 1 for closure. The instruments used were the Personal Report of Confidence as a Speaker-12 (PRCS-12) and the Self-Statements during Public Speaking (SSPS) scale. Results: A decrease was found in the scores of the PRCS-12 and in the SSPS negative self-statements subscale; however, no significant changes were reported on the positive self-talk subscale. Conclusions: The results showed evidence in favor of the efficacy of the protocol. Limitations and clinical implications of the findings are discussed, as well as improvements to the protocol to obtain better results.