JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Virtual reality (VR) psychological therapy has the potential to increase access to evidence-based mental health interventions by automating their delivery while maintaining outcomes. However, it is unclear whether these more automated therapies are acceptable to potential users of mental health services.

Objective:

The main aim of this study was to develop a new, validated questionnaire to measure public perceptions of virtual reality therapy including those guided by a virtual coach. We also aimed to explore these perceptions in greater depth and test how aspects such as familiarity with VR and mental health are associated using both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Methods:

We used a cross-sectional mixed-methods design and conducted an exploratory factor analysis of a questionnaire that we developed, the attitudes towards virtual reality therapy (AVRT) Scale, and a qualitative content analysis of data collected during completion.

Results:

We received a total of 295 responses and identified four factors within the AVRT Scale. The four factors are: (1) attitudes towards VRT, (2) expectation of presence, (3) preference for VRT, and (4) cost-effectiveness. We found that being more familiar with VR was correlated with more positive attitudes towards VRT (factor 1), a higher expectation of presence (factor 2), preference for VRT over face-to-face therapy (factor 3), and believing that VRT is cost-effective (factor 4). Qualitative data supported our factors and indicated that VRT is acceptable when delivered at home and when guided by a virtual coach.

Conclusions:

This study is the first validated scale to explore attitudes towards VRT, including VRT guided by a virtual coach, within the general population. Our findings indicate that people are willing to try VRT, particularly as it offers increased access and choice, and that as VR becomes more ubiquitous, so too will positive attitudes towards VRT.