Virtual Reality for Parent Training Intervention

Implementation of Parent Training Through the Use of Virtual Reality: a Randomized, Controlled, Single-blind Study

Previous research has shown how parental responses can affect ADHD symptoms by triggering dysfunctional cyclic processes. Therefore, it may be useful within rehabilitative treatments to include parent training (PT). Recent literature data have demonstrated the potential of using virtual reality in the rehabilitation of children with ADHD. No study has been conducted on the use of virtual reality (VS) within a PT program. It is possible to hypothesize that virtual reality, by providing a controlled environment can help the parent improve his or her ability to self-control and perceive the child's difficulties. This allows the parent's empathizing skills to be implemented and reinforces the educational techniques learned during the parent training intervention.

The investigators designed a single-blind, randomized, controlled study on ADHD patients and their parents, with the aim of evaluating the effects of virtual reality support during PT program compared to traditional PT sessions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients diagnosed with ADHD, according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria;
• Age including 6 to 10 years;
• Subjects with IQ >70;
• Signed informed consent and the availability of at least one family member to participate in the diagnostic/therapeutic process.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Important comorbidities with psychiatric or neurological syndromes (e.g., epilepsy, known genetic syndromes, infantile cerebral palsy, sensory deficits);
• Subjects under the age of 6 years;
• Subjects older than 10 years of age;
• Subjects diagnosed with intellectual disability (IQ ≤70);
• Informed consent not signed and/or unavailability of at least one family member to participate in the diagnostic/therapeutic process.