Comparing Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy and Sertraline Medication for Treating Social Anxiety in Adolescents and Young Adults

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare two treatment methods for adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 17 years with social anxiety disorder SAD. It evaluates virtual reality exposure therapy against sertraline, a commonly prescribed medication, to see which approach better reduces anxiety symptoms and improves daily functioning. The study also assesses how acceptable and safe these treatments are for participants. Conducted at Kocaeli University, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the study includes 56 participants. Participants will be assigned to one of two groups based on their treatment preference. One group will undergo virtual reality exposure therapy using a VR headset to simulate social situations like public speaking and group interactions in a controlled environment. The other group will receive sertraline medication, with dosage guided by clinical standards and physician judgment. The study includes treatment sessions and medication follow-ups over a 12-week period. During the study, participants will be assessed at the start, week 6, and week 12 using standardized scales to measure changes in social anxiety symptoms, social phobia symptoms, and overall anxiety. Researchers will monitor treatment acceptability and safety throughout the trial. The total involvement spans 12 weeks, with ongoing clinical observations and symptom evaluations to understand treatment effects and participant experiences.

Comparison of the Effectiveness Level of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy With Sertraline Treatment in Social Anxiety Disorder