Multisite Virtual Reality Intervention for Speech Anxiety

Exposure-based cognitive behavior therapy is an efficacious treatment for speech anxiety and has been delivered effectively in a virtual reality (VR) environment. The present multicenter study (conducted through the Exposure Therapy Consortium) is designed to evaluate whether trait versus state positive affectivity is a more effective predictor of exposure therapy outcomes. Further, the investigators will examine whether the predictive significance of trait positive affectivity can be accounted for by examination of baseline levels of self-efficacy, hope, and optimism.

The goal of this multicenter clinical trial is to examine predictors of VR exposure therapy outcomes for college students with public speaking anxiety following a positive or negative mood induction. The overarching aim of the present study is to evaluate whether trait versus state positive affectivity is a more effective predictor of exposure therapy outcomes. Further, the investigators will examine whether the predictive significance of trait positive affectivity can be accounted for by examination of baseline levels of self-efficacy, hope, and optimism. State affect is manipulated at an experimental level with affect induction procedures; trait positive affectivity is measured at baseline. The study involves three phases: (1) initial screening, (2) in-person assessment and brief exposure intervention for a subset of participants with elevated public speaking anxiety, and (3) a one-week follow-up assessment conducted online. Students who choose to participate and screen high on a public speaking anxiety scale will be assigned to a positive or negative mood induction condition prior to undergoing VR-based exposure therapy. Public speaking and social anxiety outcomes are measured immediately post-intervention and one week later. The one-week follow-up assessment represents the primary outcome.