VIRTUAL REALITY AND NEUROFEEDBACK IN THE TREATMENT OF AGORAPHOBIA: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW BASED ON COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY

Abstract

Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by the fear and avoidance of situations where an individual feels it might be difficult to escape or obtain help should they experience symptoms of panic or anxiety. In this context, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) stands out as a primary treatment method, particularly through techniques such as cognitive restructuring and gradual exposure. Concurrently, technological advancements have enabled the use of tools that supplement traditional approaches, most notably virtual reality and neurofeedback. This study aimed to evaluate the contributions of virtual reality and neurofeedback as intervention strategies for agoraphobia within a CBT framework, considering their benefits, limitations, and potential as complementary resources. This research employed a qualitative approach based on an integrative literature review. Studies were selected through searches of scientific databases, focusing on publications regarding agoraphobia, virtual reality, neurofeedback, and CBT. The literature review indicated that virtual reality has the potential to facilitate gradual exposure to feared situations within controlled environments that can be tailored to individual needs. Conversely, neurofeedback offers opportunities for training self-regulation of anxiety-related responses, although concrete evidence regarding its efficacy in treating agoraphobia remains limited. Both technologies hold potential as complementary tools to CBT, without replacing established therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, additional research is needed to assess the efficacy of these technologies, particularly neurofeedback, in interventions specifically targeting agoraphobia.