Improving the Efficacy of Exposure Therapy for the Treatment of Cockroach Phobia

Launched by UNIVERSITAT JAUME I · Sep 23, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking for ways to improve treatment for people with a fear of cockroaches, known as cockroach phobia. Researchers want to see if using virtual reality that shows different types of cockroaches (called Projection-Based Augmented Reality Therapy with Multiple Stimuli, or P-ARET MS) is more effective than showing just one type of cockroach (called P-ARET SS). The goal is to help participants feel less afraid of cockroaches through this innovative therapy.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be at least 18 years old and have a cockroach phobia that has lasted for at least six months. They should also meet specific criteria that show they have a significant fear of cockroaches. During the trial, participants can expect to engage in therapy sessions that involve exposure to cockroaches in a safe and controlled environment. It's important to know that individuals with other serious mental health conditions, substance abuse issues, or those currently receiving similar treatments will not be able to participate. This research aims to find better ways to help those struggling with this specific phobia.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Being at least 18 years old
• • Meeting DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for SP (animal subtype) to cockroaches -
• • Having a minimum of six-month duration of the phobia
• • Sign an informed consent
• • Presenting a score of at least 4 on the fear and avoidance scales of the diagnostic interview applied
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of another severe mental disorder that requires immediate attention
• • Having current alcohol or drug dependence or abuse, psychosis or severe organic illness
• • Currently being treated in a similar treatment program
• • Being capable of inserting their hands in a plastic container with a cockroach (during the behavioral test)
• • Receiving other psychological treatment during the study for cockroach phobia
• • Start receiving pharmacological treatment during the study (or in case of being already taking them, change the drug or dose)