Study
Virtual Reality with Biofeedback May Ease Hallucinations in Schizophrenia
Adding real-time biofeedback to virtual reality therapy could help manage auditory hallucinations in those with schizophrenia.
Summary
In plain language
Researchers have been exploring new ways to help people with schizophrenia who experience auditory hallucinations, like hearing voices. This study looked at combining virtual reality (VR) therapy with biofeedback—a method that helps people learn to control their body's responses, such as heart rate. The study involved participants using VR to visualize and interact with the voices they hear, aiming to reduce their intensity and distress. The addition of biofeedback may help participants manage anxiety during these sessions. This approach shows promise in making the treatment more effective and could lead to better management of symptoms. Seniors interested in innovative therapies might find this development noteworthy, and it is worth discussing with healthcare providers.
Details
Use the full description to understand the study design, methods, and the limits of the findings.
This study tried a new way to help people with schizophrenia who hear voices. Researchers used virtual reality to create a digital version of the voice, allowing participants to engage with it safely. They also monitored heart rates to understand stress levels.
Participants received 8 sessions of VR therapy, some with added biofeedback to measure stress.
The study found that combining VR with biofeedback might reduce the severity of hearing voices and improve daily life.
Challenges included ensuring comfort during therapy and balancing exposure to the voices.
Seniors should talk to their healthcare providers to see if such therapies could be beneficial in managing similar symptoms.
Full Study
Open the original publication for the complete methods, outcomes, and source material.
Virtual Reality with Biofeedback May Ease Hallucinations in Schizophrenia
Published January 2026 · DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0333716
Opens at the publisher · external site · may require institutional access
Research Quality Score
Scored October 22, 2026 using rubric mq-1.8_2026-07-06.
Assessment
The study scores well in study design due to its RCT nature and transparency with detailed data management and registration. However, bias control is limited by non-blinded therapists, and statistical integrity is constrained by the pilot nature. Conflicts of interest are significant due to disclosed financial ties, and the study's relevance to the target population is low as it does not focus on older adults. Journal quality is moderate, reflecting PLOS ONE's typical tier.
Category Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Study design | 10.0/10 | |
| Bias control | 6.7/10 | |
| Statistical methods | 5.0/10 | |
| Reporting completeness | 10.0/10 | |
| Conflicts & funding | 5.0/10 | |
| Replication | 0.0/10 | |
| Relevance to chosen population | 0.0/10 | |
| Journal Reliability | 5.0/10 |
Additional Notes
This pilot RCT evaluates the feasibility and potential efficacy of VR-assisted therapy augmented with biofeedback for treating auditory verbal hallucinations in schizophrenia. It compares standard VR therapy to VR with real-time physiological feedback, assessing clinical outcomes and neurophysiological changes.
Assessed on the study's full text across 8 quality dimensions; conflict-of-interest disclosures were reviewed.
Treatments Evaluated in This Research
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