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Baxter VR: A Scale-Based Prototype for Simulating Human-Dog Interactions in Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy
  • Jacob Sauer,
  • Bernhard E. Riecke
Jacob Sauer
Simon Fraser University - Surrey Campus

Corresponding Author:jacob_sauer@sfu.ca

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Bernhard E. Riecke
Simon Fraser University - Surrey Campus
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Abstract

Cynophobia, the fear of dogs, is among the most prevalent and debilitating animal phobias: 36% of animal phobia patients report fearing either dogs or cats, and dogs are ubiquitous in many cultures. Exposure therapy is considered first-line treatment for cynophobia, but the involvement of real dogs presents ethical and feasibility concerns. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) has demonstrated potential as an alternative to in-person exposure therapy in the treatment of animal phobias, but literature evaluating its use for cynophobia is scarce, and a recent scoping review suggests a need for further exploration in this area. We thus present Baxter VR, a VRET-inspired prototype that enables the user to change their size relative to a virtual dog and surrounding environment, which then affects both the degree of interactivity in the environment and the dog’s behaviour itself. For example, the dog becomes fearful and acts aggressively if the user’s size increases to ”giant” scale; which is intended to dispel a common cynophobic belief that dog aggression occurs spontaneously. We argue that such an approach could guide further exploration of VRET interventions for cynophobia, culminating in a safer and more affordable treatment option for individuals suffering from this condition.
16 Dec 2024Submitted to Computer Animation and Virtual Worlds
17 Dec 2024Submission Checks Completed
17 Dec 2024Assigned to Editor
06 Jan 2025Reviewer(s) Assigned