NCT05816083 · Medical University of South Carolina
Development and Evaluation of a Virtual Reality Tool for At-Risk Trauma-Exposed Young People
What this study is about
This is a multi-phased study, funded through a National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) K24 grant that aims to ultimately refine a virtual reality tool through qualitative and quantitative research targeting HIV and substance abuse risk behavior among at-risk young people who have experienced psychosocial trauma.
View original scientific description
This is a multi-phased study, funded through a National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) K24 grant that aims to ultimately refine a virtual reality tool through qualitative and quantitative research targeting HIV and substance abuse risk behavior among at-risk young people who have experienced psychosocial trauma. Participants eligible for this study include young men who have sex with men (YMSM)/individuals who are romantically/physically attracted to men and adolescents with substance use disorder (SUD) between the ages of 15 - 30 and have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. Frontline healthcare workers who work within these populations are eligible for the study as well.
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
- for YMSM are as follows:
- Someone who identifies as a YMSM or identifies as someone with romantic or physical attraction to individuals who identify as men
- Is aged 15-30 years
- Have experienced at least one ITE in lifetime (i.e., sexual assault, physical assault, witnessed domestic or community violence)
- Report being consensually sexually active or planning to become sexually active with a partner in the next 12 months
- Live in the Charleston, SC/Tri-county area Inclusion Criteria for adolescents with SUD are as follows:
- Someone who reports using substances in the past year (for participants ages 15-17) or the past 6 months (for participants ages 18-30)
- Is aged 15-30 years
- Have experienced at least one ITE in lifetime (i.e., sexual assault, physical assault, witnessed domestic or community violence)
- Report being consensually sexually active or planning to become sexually active with a partner in the next 12 months
- Live in the Charleston, SC/Tri-county area Inclusion Criteria for front line healthcare workers are as follows:
- works directly with adolescents who have experienced ITE and/or
- works directly with adolescents or young adults with SUD and/or
- works directly with YMSM and/or
- works directly with and/or adolescent or young adults who are HIV-positive
Exclusion criteria
- for all participants are as follows:
- exhibits psychotic symptoms;
- exhibits significant cognitive disability;
- reports a history of Pervasive Developmental Disorder;
- has active suicidal or homicidal ideations
- self-reports high levels of motion sickness
Where
- Charleston, South Carolina
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 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations