Virtual reality fear trip may boost empathy, study hints

NCT ID NCT07314788

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Miami Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether a fear-inducing virtual reality (VR) experience can change how much empathy people feel. About 110 young adults (ages 18-25) will either experience a scary VR scenario, like walking a plank high above a city, or a neutral one. Researchers will measure changes in self-reported empathy and heart rate before and after the VR experience.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Fear-inducing virtual reality (VR) experience
What this could lead to: If successful, this study could help us understand how virtual reality experiences influence empathy, potentially guiding future uses of VR in empathy training or therapy.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 110 participants, so results may not apply to the general population. It measures short-term changes, not long-term effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

FEAR VIRTUAL REALITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Miami

Coral Gables, Florida, 33146, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.