Virtual Reality for the Treatment of Social Anxiety: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool in psychotherapy, particularly for treating social anxiety disorder (SAD). By creating immersive and customizable environments, VR enables gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking social situations in a controlled setting. This systematic review aimed to examine the effectiveness of VR-based psychological interventions for SAD. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in major scientific databases between August and September 2025, including randomized controlled trials published from 2016 to 2025. Eligible studies reported pre- and post-intervention outcomes using validated measures. Findings indicate that VR significantly reduces social anxiety symptoms, showing comparable efficacy to traditional in vivo exposure while offering advantages such as greater accessibility, reduced discomfort, and lower costs. Self-guided VR interventions demonstrated limited effectiveness compared to therapist-supported approaches combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy. Overall, VR represents an effective and complementary resource for SAD treatment rather than a substitute for professional care. Further research is needed to standardize protocols, strengthen methodological rigor, and ensure safety across diverse clinical contexts.