Integrating Virtual Reality Into OCD Treatment: Comparing Virtual Reality and Traditional Exposure Techniques in a Clinical Sample for Contamination‐Related OCD

Virtual reality exposure (VRE) is a useful and effective alternative that can overcome important limitations of traditional exposure methods. A limited number of recent studies have found promising results when examining the use of VRE in the treatment of contamination‐related obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of VRE with in vivo and imaginal exposure in reducing contamination‐related OCD symptoms. Forty‐four participants diagnosed with DSM‐5 OCD and whose primary symptoms were contamination obsessions and cleaning compulsions were included in the study. Participants were matched based on their Y‐BOCS scores and assigned to VRE ( n = 7), in vivo exposure ( n = 8), imaginal exposure ( n = 8) and wait‐list control ( n = 10) groups. Participants in the exposure groups completed an average of 10 exposure sessions with two sessions per week. The results indicated that VRE reduced the severity of OCD symptoms and contamination‐related cognitions, as well as improving psychological well‐being. Additionally, the findings suggest that VRE may be as effective as in vivo and imaginal exposure in reducing OCD symptoms, particularly in diminishing contamination‐related anxiety and compulsive behaviours. The findings of the study indicate that VRE may offer a viable alternative to other exposure techniques.