This study examined an experimental behavioral
therapy protocol using virtual reality for fear of
flying (FOF) in comparison to the existing standard
treatment protocol commonly employed of exposure
therapy. Both groups received
Virtual Reality (VR) as the method exposure to the
stimulus and biofeedback on autonomic functioning.
The control group was treated with graded exposure,
where participants were repeatedly exposed to flight
situations via VR, while receiving continuous
biofeedback on physiological sensations. The
experimental group was treated using a systematic
desensitization model where participants were
repeatedly exposed to flight situations via VR, while
engaging in relaxation techniques to counter the
anxiety response, while receiving continuous
biofeedback on physiological sensations.