Document type
ArticleVersion
Accepted versionPublication date
All rights reserved
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/153940
The use of virtual reality in the study, assessment, and treatment of body image in eating disorders and nonclinical samples: A review of the literature
Journal Title
Director/Tutor
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Related resource
Abstract
This article reviews research into the use of virtual reality in the study, assessment, and treatment of body image disturbances in eating disorders and nonclinical samples. During the last decade, virtual reality has emerged as a technology that is especially suitable not only for the assessment of body image disturbances but also for its treatment. Indeed, several virtual environment-based software systems have been developed for this purpose. Furthermore, virtual reality seems to be a good alternative to guided imagery and in vivo exposure, and is therefore very useful for studies that require exposure to life-like situations but which are difficult to conduct in the real world. Nevertheless, review highlights the lack of published controlled studies and the presence of methodological drawbacks that should be considered in future studies. This article also discusses the implications of the results obtained and proposes directions for future research.
Subject
Subject (English)
Citation
Citation
FERRER, Marta (Ferrer García) and GUTIÉRREZ MALDONADO, José. The use of virtual reality in the study, assessment, and treatment of body image in eating disorders and nonclinical samples: A review of the literature. Body Image. 2012. Vol. 9, num. 1. ISSN 1740-1445. [consulted: 11 of August of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/153940