Psychophysiological responses to VR-based exposure therapy: Implications for treating PTSD in victims of violent crime

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains a significant mentalhealth challenge among victims of violent crime, often characterizedby heightened physiological arousal and maladaptive fear responses.Virtual reality (VR) has recently emerged as a promising tool forexposure-based therapy, offering controlled,immersive environmentsthat can enhance ecological validity compared to traditional methods.This study investigates the psychophysiological responses elicitedduring VR-based exposure therapy, including heart rate variabilitygalvanic skin response, and cortisol levels, to assess both stressactivation and recovery patterns, Findings indicate that while VRscenarios initially trigger elevated arousal comparable to in vivoexposure, repeated sessions are associated with gradual habituationand improved emotion regulation.lmportantly, reductions inphysiological reactivity were paralleled by self-reported decreases inintrusive memories and avoidance behaviors. These results suggestthat monitoring psychophysiological markers provides valuableinsight into treatment progress and may guide individualizedtherapeutic adjustments. The study highlights the potential of VR-based interventions as an effective and adaptable approach fortreating PTSD in victims of violent crime.

Journal

English

Yao, L. (2025). Psychophysiological responses to VR‑based exposure therapy: Implications for treating PTSD in victims of violent crime. Journal of Criminal Investigation and Criminology, 76(2). https://doi.org/10.52152/639213