Restructuring Body Experience in Anorexia Nervosa: Virtual Reality Functionality-Focused Mirror Exposure

Background: Body image disturbance remains a core therapeutic challenge in Anorexia Nervosa (AN) treatment, necessitating innovative intervention approaches. This study protocol describes a randomized controlled trial investigating Virtual Reality Functionality-Focused Mirror Exposure (VR-FME), a novel intervention targeting the perceptual, affective, and cognitive dimensions of body image disturbance in AN patients. Methods: This single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial will evaluate the efficacy of VR-FME as an adjunct to treatment as usual (TAU). Participants with AN will be randomly allocated to receive either VR-FME combined with TAU or TAU alone. The intervention specifically addresses altered body image through immersive virtual reality technology, providing controlled exposure and cognitive restructuring opportunities. Primary Outcome: The primary outcome measure will assess changes in body image disturbance severity and core eating disorder symptomatology. We hypothesize that the integration of VR-FME with TAU will demonstrate superior therapeutic outcomes compared to TAU alone. Significance: This protocol represents an innovative approach to addressing body image disturbance in AN, potentially enhancing current therapeutic strategies through the integration of immersive virtual reality technology. The findings will contribute to the evolving landscape of technology-enhanced interventions for eating disorders.

NCT Number	NCT06852183
Lead Sponsor	Catholic University of the Sacred Heart Collaborators: Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Centro ABA Fatebenefratelli
Conditions	Anorexia Nervosa
Enrollment	40 participants
Start Date	2025-06-01
Primary Completion	2026-06-30 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-12-31 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2025-02-28