János Kollár: Virtual reality as a supportive opportunity in treatment patients with anorexia nervosa
Review article; International Journal of Medical Science and Clinical Research, Volume 1; Issue 4; 2019; Page No. 31-37
Abstract
Theoretical background:
Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-based tool for visualizing interactive three-dimensional environments where the user can experience a feeling of physically present in a non-physical world. The main feature of the technology makes possible using the method in treatments of patients suffering from anorexia nervosa (AN).
Aim:
The purpose of the review is summarizing the studies discussing the possibilities of using VR technology in treatment of patients with AN thus showing how VR is being used in treatment of AN all over the world.
Material and Methods:
The main medical databases (Ovid Medline, Biological Abstracts, PubMed, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant data. The papers were selected by focusing on key words: virtual reality and anorexia.
Results:
Finally, 12 articles were selected. The aims of the studies can be categorized into 3 dimensions, namely a) correcting perceptual body image (7), b) reducing anxiety regarding food and environment (4), and c) the effect of AN on spatial ability (1).
Conclusions:
VR technology can be considered as a successful supportive tool in treatment of AN and also in providing more information for educational purpose about the nature of the disease.
Keywords: VR, virtual reality, anorexia nervosa, eating disorder.