NCT07219875 · University of California, Los Angeles
Training Reward Responsiveness Through Virtual Reality
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of Virtual Reality-Reward Training (VR-RT) with an active control condition, Virtual Reality-Memory Training (VR-MT), on positive affect and other clinical symptoms.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of Virtual Reality-Reward Training (VR-RT) with an active control condition, Virtual Reality-Memory Training (VR-MT), on positive affect and other clinical symptoms. VR-Reward Training is a novel intervention aimed at enhancing savoring of positive experiences among individuals with depression and low positive affect through guided imaginal recounting following immersion in positive VR experiences. The current study tests an enhanced version of this training using improved virtual reality technology. Target enrollment is 80 participants with low positive affect, depression, and impaired functioning, who are at least 18 years old, who will be randomly assigned to 7 weeks of either Virtual Reality-Reward Training (VR-RT) or Virtual Reality-Memory Training (VR-MT). Participants will complete in-person VR sessions, laboratory assessments, self-report questionnaires as part of the study. A subset of 8 participants randomly assigned to VR-RT will complete fMRI scans and EMA surveys. The total length of participation is around 3 months.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Virtual Reality-Reward Training (VR-RT)
Participants will complete verbal recounting (present-tense, field perspective, positive details) and guided imaginal recounting of positive details for rewarding VR experiences and positive autobiographical memories.
BEHAVIORAL
Virtual Reality-Memory Training (VR-MT)
Participants will complete verbal recounting (past-tense, observer perspective, objective details) and guided imaginal recounting of neutral details for neutral VR experiences and neutral non-personal stories
Primary outcome measures
The Mood and Anxiety Symptoms Questionnaire - Anhedonic Depression Subscale (MASQ-AD)
Time frame: Change from Week 0 assessment to Post-Assessment (Week 8). Change from Week 0 assessment to Follow-Up (Week 12).
Change in reported anhedonia (score range: 14-70), with higher scores indicating greater anhedonic symptom severity
Positive Valence Systems Scale (PVSS-21)
Time frame: Change from Week 0 assessment to Post-Assessment (Week 8). Change from Week 0 assessment to Follow-Up (Week 12).
Change in reward anticipation, motivation, and consumption for rewards such as rewards such as food, physical touch, positive feedback, social interactions, hobbies and goals (score range: 21-105). Higher scores (e.g. 105) indicate higher reward responsiveness.
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
- At least 18 years old
- Fluent in written and spoken English
- Meet all of the following dimensional score cutoffs:
- Score on the DASS-21 depression subscale must be ≥ 8
- Score on the PANAS-P of 27 or lower
- Score on the WSAS of ≥ 11
Exclusion criteria
- Lifetime history of bipolar disorder, psychosis, mental retardation, or organic brain damage
- Substance use disorder in the past 6 months
- Current use of psychotropic medications
- Currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Self-reported frequent motion sickness
- Self-reported seizures within the last year and/or a diagnosis of epilepsy
Where
- Los Angeles, California
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 May 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations