evaluating efficiently exposure therapy based on virtual reality on the symptoms of behavioral and cognitive of obsessive-compulsive disorder(Case study)

Jabbari, Saeideh; Hashemi, Touraj; Khanjani, •	Zeynab

doi:10.22075/jcp.2025.38380.3253

evaluating efficiently exposure therapy based on virtual reality on the symptoms of behavioral and cognitive of obsessive-compulsive disorder(Case study)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

10.22075/jcp.2025.38380.3253

Abstract

Abstract
Objective: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), characterized by persistent behavioral and cognitive symptoms, significantly impairs quality of life. The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) in alleviating behavioral and cognitive symptoms in individuals with OCD.
Materials and Methods: This study employed a single-case experimental design with multiple baselines (three baseline phases, nine intervention sessions, and two follow-up assessments). Three female participants diagnosed with OCD based on the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5) were selected through purposive sampling. The Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Kobori and Salkovskis' Reassurance-Seeking Questionnaire, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), and the Stroop Response Inhibition Task were used to assess target variables. Data were analyzed using visual inspection of time-series graphs, the Reliable Change Index (RCI), and percentage of clinical improvement.
Results: Findings revealed a clinically significant reduction in both behavioral and cognitive symptoms, which persisted through the follow-up period. An RCI greater than 1.96 and a clinical improvement exceeding 50% supported the efficacy of the intervention. These outcomes were maintained post-treatment.
Conclusion: The intervention proved effective not only in reducing overt OCD symptoms such as compulsive washing and reassurance-seeking, but also in enhancing underlying cognitive functions including response inhibition and psychological flexibility. The persistence of treatment gains at follow-up highlights the stability and clinical value of VRET as a promising therapeutic approach for OCD
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