Stepping into another's shoes: could virtual reality foster empathy for homelessness?
NCT ID NCT07727447
First seen Jul 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 27, 2026
Summary
This trial tests whether a virtual reality simulation, 'We Live Here,' can improve empathy and attitudes toward people experiencing homelessness in undergraduate medical sciences students. One group experiences the VR simulation before hearing from guest speakers with lived experience of homelessness, while another group hears the speakers first. Researchers compare changes in attitudes and engagement to see if the order of activities makes a difference.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- a virtual reality simulation called 'We Live Here' that places users in the perspective of a woman experiencing homelessness
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this approach could help train healthcare professionals to be more empathetic and understanding toward people experiencing homelessness.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study in a specific group of students, so results may not apply broadly. The VR experience may not change attitudes more than hearing speakers alone.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
-
University of Western Ontario
London, Ontario, Canada
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