Effects of driving simulator intervention on post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms after traffic accidents: A single-subject study.

BACKGROUND

Although exposure therapy is a proven treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), empirical research is difficult due to ethical issues. Recently, virtual reality-based content that can provide space and time similar to reality for exposure therapy techniques is increasing.

AIM: To examine exposure therapy using driving simulations in patients with PTSD due to traffic accidents with PTSD symptoms.

METHODS

The intervention was provided to two individuals who experienced PTSD symptoms after a traffic accident using a driving simulator. Among the single-subject experimental designs, the ABA (baseline-intervention-baseline) design was used, and the PTSD checklist and brain wave frequency were used to measure the results.

RESULTS

In all participants, the standard category departure time of the electroencephalogram decreased from baseline, and PTSD symptoms decreased after the intervention.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest the potential use of a driving simulator as an exposure treatment tool for PTSD.