Using Virtual Reality to Treat Offenders: An Examination

Clinicians have used virtual reality (VR) for learning, practice and treatment for decades, but few efforts have been made to incorporate this technology into correctional rehabilitation. Advances in hardware and software, reductions in price and the wide availability of VR systems now make this more viable. This article introduces readers to this innovative technology and explains how VR can be used to enhance current rehabilitative efforts. Potential pitfalls for implementing this type of program are also discussed.