Overview

The goal of this pilot randomised controlled trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of the UniVRse VR-CBT programme in students with social anxiety. The aims of this trial are:

1. To determine whether a full trial is justified;
2. To establish the effect size on the co-primary outcomes for a sample size calculation for a definitive trial;
3. To address questions concerning study recruitment, retention, and acceptability.

Participants will complete a baseline assessment (T0) and then be randomly allocated to receive either UniVRse VR-CBT or join the wait-list control group. UniVRse VR-CBT uses graded exposure techniques delivered using VR to help students feel more confident in university-based situations. Data will be collected post-intervention (T1) along with exit interviews to assess participant experience.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

For participants to be eligible to take part, they must be:

• A current student at the University of Westminster;
• Able to read and communicate in English;
• Wanting help to feel more confident at university;
• Deemed to have context-specific social anxiety as defined by a response of 'moderate' or 'often' on one of the subscales from any one of the following items from the MLSAS-SR: 5, 12, 17, and 9. These items reflect the highest level (i.e. most anxiety-invoking) of each of the four scenarios within the UniVRse programme:
  • Asking a question in a lecture in person
  • Delivering a presentation on your own in front of the class
  • Speaking using my mic during online seminars
  • Speaking up during small group discussions in person

Exclusion Criteria:

Persons will be excluded from the study if meet any of the following criteria:

• Have photosensitive epilepsy;
• Have a visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses;
• Have a balance disorder;
• Have a significant auditory impairment;
• Have current and active suicidal plans;
• Are currently accessing or have confirmed plans to access another psychological intervention during the course of the study.

        Participants will be excluded from providing a saliva sample (required for the cortisol
        measurement) if they meet any of the following criteria:
          -  Are pregnant;
          -  Currently breastfeeding;
          -  Taking any medications;
          -  Have any other serious medical condition;
          -  Think that they currently have COVID-19. These participants may still participate in
             the wider UniVRse trial if they meet all of the aforementioned main trial
             inclusion/exclusion criteria.