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Virtual Reality and Autism
 Virtual reality headsets are being used more and more with people with autism, researchers are studying virtual reality’s potential as a treatment tool for autism more than ever before. New studies suggest that VR could be used for everything from assisting autistic children to overcome phobias and preparing for real-world situations such as developing interview skills within a safe ‘virtual’ environment.
Natalie Catren, a contributor to the U.K.’s Independent, cautions, 'it’s vitally important that VR technology is not seen as a device with which to “cure” autistic individuals.' Researchers, therapists, doctors, teachers, and parents should view VR therapies and training as a way to help autistic people achieve their own goals and live more fulfilling lives—not to fix something that’s broken.
There are applications which The National Autistic Society (www.autism.org.uk) have developed of first-person videos that simulate sensory overload. Especially when viewed through a VR headset, these videos help neurotypical people experience the anxiety and panic caused by sensory overload and understand how coping mechanisms like healthy stimming can help.
We’re just beginning to scratch the surface of VR’s potential for helping people with ASD. As more programs and training are developed, and as more extensive studies are performed, we’re likely to see VR therapies appear more and more in schools, doctor and clinician offices and private homes. And if current results are any indication, everyone — both neurotypical and not — will benefit.
Text (c) How Virtual Reality is Helping People with Autism – ARVRedtech.com | AR & VR Education Technology
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Congratulations to Chloe Hudson
