VRbal: A Virtual Reality Solution for Social Anxiety

Revolutionizing Anxiety Coping Techniques through VR and AI

VRbal, a VR app developed by designer Yuka Fukuoka, aims to replace the currently outdated practice of Applied Behavioral Analysis. This innovative project acts as an example of the level of high precision and realism that a customizable VR experience could have in the future. With approximately 1% of the total population being stutterers, and many adult stutterers suffering from secondary issues such as depression and social anxiety disorders, VRbal has the potential to solve many of the issues burdening people all over the world.

Vrbal is a smart VR experience that uses machine learning to help the user prepare for a specific anxiety-inducing event of their choice. By creating step-by-step daily tasks, Vrbal gradually exposes the user to the situation, allowing them to build confidence and develop coping mechanisms. The application combines both relaxation and gradual exposure therapy techniques to create a more satisfying experience.

One of the unique features of VRbal is its ability to provide every single user with a unique experience tailored to their personal needs and preferences. Unlike other VR applications that offer generic meditation or practice simulations, VRbal merges VR and AI to create a highly personalized and realistic environment. Users can choose from different difficulty levels, environments, noise levels, and audience sizes based on their comfort levels. Before each level, users can also select a relaxation scene to practice challenging words, vowels, or simply relax.

The development of VRbal involved extensive research and collaboration with the target users. The design team conducted three user testing sessions, working closely with members from the National Stuttering Association. Through unstructured interviews, A/B testing, and the Think-Aloud Protocol, the team gathered both quantitative and qualitative data on the effectiveness of VRbal. This collaborative approach ensured that the design of VRbal addressed the root problems faced by individuals with social anxiety.

VRbal was developed using technologies such as C#, JavaScript, JSON, Oculus Rift, Unity 3D, and IBM Watson AI. The project started in December 2017 in New York and was completed in March 2018. It was exhibited at the Games for Change Festival, showcasing its potential to make a significant social impact.

For its groundbreaking approach and practicality, VRbal was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Social Design category in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. VRbal's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world made it a deserving recipient of this accolade.