NCT07216534 · Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Virtual Reality Viewing of Unaltered Streetscape Versus Digitally Manipulated Opposite Streetscape to Assess Psychosocial Response in Participants
What this study is about
This clinical trial compares virtual reality viewing of an unaltered streetscape versus a digitally manipulated opposite streetscape to assess the psychosocial response in participants. Visible measures of neighborhood factors might be associated with health outcomes and risk factors of those outcomes.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial compares virtual reality viewing of an unaltered streetscape versus a digitally manipulated opposite streetscape to assess the psychosocial response in participants. Visible measures of neighborhood factors might be associated with health outcomes and risk factors of those outcomes. Short-term exposure to virtual reality environments representing very high or very low levels of neighborhood physical disorder - presence or absence of garbage/litter, presence or absence of graffiti, presence or absence of an abandoned building, presence or absence of large dumpsters, poor or very well-kept building conditions, poor or very well-kept yard conditions, poor or very well-kept road verge conditions may be a safe and effective way to assess psychosocial response in participants.
Interventions
OTHER
Survey Administration
Ancillary studies
OTHER
Virtual Technology Intervention
View standard streetscape
OTHER
Virtual Technology Intervention
View digital twin of streetscape
OTHER
Virtual Technology Intervention
View opposite digital streetscape
Primary outcome measures
Change in heart rate variability
Time frame: From baseline to completion of virtual reality (VR) viewings, up to 1 day
Mean heart rate variability over the entire session of each VR condition will be calculated from electrocardiograph data. Will compare the difference between two VR conditions (viewing opposite neighborhood image versus viewing twin neighborhood image) using a crossover design. Analyses of outcomes will be conducted using generalized linear mixed model approaches.
Change in skin conductance
Time frame: From baseline to completion of VR viewings, up to 1 day
Skin conductance, measured as microsiemens, will be calculated as the mean value over each VR condition. Will compare the difference between two VR conditions (viewing opposite neighborhood image versus viewing twin neighborhood image) using a crossover design. Analyses of outcomes will be conducted using generalized linear mixed model approaches.
Affective reaction
Time frame: After completion of VR viewings, up to 1 day
Assessed via Self-assessment Manikin. Will compare the difference between two VR conditions (viewing opposite neighborhood image versus viewing twin neighborhood image) using a crossover design. Analyses of outcomes will be conducted using generalized linear mixed model approaches.
Anxiety
Time frame: After completion of VR viewings, up to 1 day
Assessed via Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory short form. Will compare the difference between two VR conditions (viewing opposite neighborhood image versus viewing twin neighborhood image) using a crossover design. Analyses of outcomes will be conducted using generalized linear mixed model approaches.
Participant reported discomfort
Time frame: After completion of VR viewings, up to 1 day
This is an open-ended outcome measure. Discomfort reported by participants will be recorded by study staff.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Must currently live (4+ night/week) at the residence being studied. Only one resident per household will be selected
- Must understand and be able to read English
- Must agree to have residence photographed
- Must be able to wear a VR head mounted display
- Must live in neighborhood that has been selected for study
- Must be willing and able to attend an approximately 2 hour in-person visit on Ohio State University (OSU) campus
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnant women
- Visual or mobility impairment
- Cannot have epilepsy or other condition that would inhibit them from being able to use a VR headset
Where
- Columbus, Ohio
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations