Future Directions: How Virtual Reality Can Further Improve the Assessment and Treatment of Eating Disorders and Obesity

Cyberpsychol Behav Soc Netw. 2016 Feb;19(2):148-53. doi: 10.1089/cyber.2015.0412. Epub 2015 Sep 17.

Abstract

Transdisciplinary efforts for further elucidating the etiology of eating and weight disorders and improving the effectiveness of the available evidence-based interventions are imperative at this time. Recent studies indicate that computer-generated graphic environments-virtual reality (VR)-can integrate and extend existing treatments for eating and weight disorders (EWDs). Future possibilities for VR to improve actual approaches include its use for altering in real time the experience of the body (embodiment) and as a cue exposure tool for reducing food craving.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Craving
  • Feeding Behavior / psychology
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / psychology
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / therapy*
  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Obesity / psychology
  • Obesity / therapy*
  • Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy / trends*