ABSTRACT
This paper presents a proof of concept for an immersive and interactive mobile application which aims to help people with hidden disabilities to develop tolerance to the environmental stressors that are typically found in crowded public spaces, and more particularly in airports. The application initially proposes the user to rehearse a series of sensory attenuated experiences within digitally reconstructed environments of the Aberdeen International Airport. Throughout rehearsals, environmental stressors are gradually increased making the environments more sensory challenging for the user. Usability and pilot testing provided encouraging outcomes ahead of future developments.
Supplemental Material
- Maskey, M., Lowry, J., Rodgers, J., McConachie, H. and Parr, J.R., 2014. Reducing specific phobia/fear in young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) through a virtual reality environment intervention. PloS one, 9(7), p.e100374.Google ScholarCross Ref
- Yellowlees, P.M., Holloway, K.M. and Parish, M.B., 2012. Therapy in virtual environments—clinical and ethical issues. Telemedicine and e-Health, 18(7), pp.558-564.Google ScholarCross Ref
- Anderson, P.L., Price, M., Edwards, S.M., Obasaju, M.A., Schmertz, S.K., Zimand, E. and Calamaras, M.R., 2013. Virtual reality exposure therapy for social anxiety disorder: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of consulting and clinical psychology, 81(5), p.751.Google ScholarCross Ref
Index Terms
- Using mobile virtual reality to empower people with hidden disabilities to overcome their barriers
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